JP7459990B2 - gaming machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to gaming machines.

For example, some gaming machines such as pachinko gaming machines are known to be equipped with operating means operated by a player. For example, in the pachinko gaming machine disclosed in Patent Document 1, an operating means is provided on the front of the gaming machine, and in order to make the player expect the occurrence of a special gaming state etc. that is advantageous to the player, special effects are created according to the player's operation. The system is configured to display the information on the screen, etc. In gaming machines that employ such operating means, an important issue is how to use the operating means to increase the player's attention to the game.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2008-29764

Here, there is a concern that simply providing special effects in response to the operation of an operating means may make the operation monotonous, losing its novelty and making players less interested in the operation itself. In contrast, if a configuration is used in which various special effects are executed in response to each operation, it is possible to prevent the game from becoming monotonous, but it is expected that the operation mode will become more complicated and more likely to confuse players. As such, there is still room for improvement in the configuration in terms of increasing attention to the game through special effects.

The present invention was made in consideration of the circumstances exemplified above, and aims to provide a gaming machine that can effectively increase attention to the game.

Below, means for solving the above problems will be described.

The present invention relates to
In a gaming machine having an operation means operated by a player,
The operation corresponding performance can be executed in response to establishment of a performance execution condition based on the operation of the operation means during the first performance and the second performance ,
The second performance can be executed after the first performance is executed, and a guidance means is provided that can configure a mode in which a player is guided to execute a predetermined operation on the operation means in a predetermined state between the first performance and the second performance,
The predetermined state includes a first predetermined state and a second predetermined state that may be configured for a longer period than the first predetermined state,
The induction means is
A means for performing the guiding in a predetermined manner in the first predetermined state;
A means for preventing the guidance in the predetermined manner from being performed in the second predetermined state;
Equipped with
The guidance in the predetermined manner is performed even if the predetermined operation is performed in the first predetermined state .

The present invention can effectively increase attention to the game.

It is a front view showing a pachinko machine in a first embodiment. It is a perspective view of the pachinko machine seen diagonally from the front. 1 is an exploded perspective view showing the main components of a pachinko machine. 1 is an exploded perspective view showing the main components of a pachinko machine. It is a front view showing the composition of an inner frame. FIG. 2 is a front view showing the configuration of the game board. FIG. 4 is a rear view showing the configuration of the inner frame. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the rear configuration of the game board. FIG. 3 is a front view showing the configuration of the back pack unit. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine in the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an overview of various counters used in game control. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing timer interrupt processing executed by the MPU of the main control device. 13 is a flowchart showing a normal process. (a) is a flowchart showing the variable display control processing executed by the MPU of the notification/performance control device, and (b) is a flowchart showing the variable start processing. 13 is a flowchart showing an operation determining process. It is a flowchart which shows the process for 1st effects. FIG. 1A is a schematic diagram showing an overview of the second performance, and FIG. 1B is a flowchart showing the second performance setting process. 13 is a flowchart showing a second performance process. 1 is a timing chart showing the flow of a game. It is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the first performance and the second performance in the second embodiment. 1A is a flowchart showing the setting content update process executed by the MPU of the notification/performance control device, and FIG. 1B is a timing chart showing the flow of the game. A schematic diagram showing the transition from the first performance to the second performance. 13 is a flowchart showing an operation determining process. (a) A flowchart showing the setting content update process in the third embodiment, and (b) a timing chart showing the flow of the game. 13B is a flowchart showing the setting content update process in the fourth embodiment; FIG. 13B is a timing chart showing the flow of a game; 23 is a flowchart showing various processes related to the second presentation in the sixth embodiment. 1 is a timing chart showing the flow of a game.

<First embodiment>
Hereinafter, a first embodiment of a pachinko game machine (hereinafter referred to as "pachinko machine"), which is a type of gaming machine, will be described in detail based on the drawings. FIG. 1 is a front view of the pachinko machine 10, FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the pachinko machine 10 seen diagonally from the front, and FIGS. 3 and 4 are perspective views showing the main components of the pachinko machine 10 developed. In addition, in FIG. 3, the configuration within the gaming area of the pachinko machine 10 is omitted for convenience.

As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko machine 10 has an outer frame 11 forming the outer shell of the pachinko machine 10, and a gaming machine main part 12 attached to the outer frame 11.

The outer frame 11 is a rectangular frame made of plate material connected on all four sides. The pachinko machine 10 is installed in the island equipment of the amusement park by attaching and fixing the outer frame 11 to the island equipment. Note that the outer frame 11 is not a required component of the pachinko machine 10, and the outer frame 11 may be attached to the island equipment of the amusement park.

The main machine part 12 is supported by this outer frame 11 in a state in which it can be opened and closed. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2, an upper support bracket 17 is fixed to the connection between the upper and left frame parts of the outer frame 11, and a lower support bracket 18 is fixed to the connection between the lower and left frame parts of the outer frame 11. The upper support bracket 17 and the lower support bracket 18 form a support mechanism, which allows the main machine part 12 to rotate forward of the pachinko machine 10 with the left side as the base end and the right side as the tip end when viewed from the front of the pachinko machine 10 relative to the outer frame 11.

As shown in FIG. 3, the main part 12 of the gaming machine includes an inner frame 13 as a base body, a front door frame 14 arranged in front of the inner frame 13, and a back pack unit 15 (see FIG. 4) arranged behind the inner frame 13. The inner frame 13 of the main part 12 of the gaming machine is supported rotatably relative to the outer frame 11.

A front door frame 14 is rotatably attached to the end of the inner frame 13 on the rotation base end side, and the front door frame 14 has the left side as the rotation base end and the right side as the rotation base end when viewed from the front. The tip side can be rotated forward. Further, as shown in FIG. 4, a back pack unit 15 is rotatably attached to the end of the inner frame 13 on the rotation base end side, and the back pack unit 15 rotates on the left side when viewed from the front. It can be rotated backwards with the right side as the base end and the right side as the tip end.

Next, the front door frame 14 will be described. As shown in FIG. 3, the front door frame 14 is mainly composed of a synthetic resin frame body 20 having an external shape substantially identical to that of the outer frame 11, and covers substantially the entire front side of the inner frame 13. A substantially elliptical window portion 21 (see FIG. 1) is formed in the center of the frame body 20, allowing substantially the entire playing area PE, which will be described later, to be viewed from the front of the gaming machine, and the window portion 21 is covered from the rear side of the front door frame 14 by a glass unit 30.

As shown in FIG. 3, the frame body 20 is formed with a glass unit installation section 22 surrounding the window section 21. More specifically, the glass unit installation section 22 is disposed on the rear side of the frame body 20 and is recessed toward the front of the pachinko machine 10, with the window section 21 disposed at the bottom. The glass unit 30 fits into the glass unit installation section 22, restricting its displacement in the vertical and horizontal directions.

The glass unit 30 comprises transparent glass panels 31, 32 and a glass holder 33 that holds the glass panels 31, 32. The glass holder 33 has an annular frame formed along the window portion 21, and the glass panels 31, 32 are housed in the area surrounded by the frame.

Referring again to FIG. 1, various light-emitting means such as lamps are provided around the window 21. For example, a circular illumination section 24 incorporating light-emitting means such as LEDs is provided along the periphery of the window 21. The circular illumination section 24 lights up or blinks in response to changes in the game state, such as when a jackpot is hit or a certain reach is reached. More specifically, a top lamp section 25 is provided at the center of the circular illumination section 24 and at the top of the pachinko machine 10, and is provided with a function of lighting up in the event of a certain error. Side lamp sections 26 are provided on both the left and right sides of the window 21, and are provided with a function of lighting up while prize balls are being paid out. In addition, speaker sections 27 are provided on both the left and right sides of the top lamp section 25, which output sound effects according to the game state.

As shown in FIG. 2, below the window 21 in the front door frame 14, an upper bulge 28 and a lower bulge 29 that bulge toward the front are arranged side by side. The upper bulge 28 has an upper tray 28a that opens upward, and the lower bulge 29 has a lower tray 29a that also opens upward. The upper tray 28a has the function of temporarily storing game balls paid out from the payout device described below, and guiding them to the game ball launching mechanism described below while aligning them in a row. The lower tray 29a also has the function of storing surplus game balls in the upper tray 28a.

An operation button 40 that is operated (more specifically, pressed or pressed) by the player is provided in a portion of the upper bulge 28 that is in front of the upper tray 28a (game ball storage area). The operation button 40 is an operation device used by the player to issue a predetermined instruction during the course of the game for the purpose of performing a predetermined effect on the display screen of a symbol display device, etc., which will be described later. The effects performed based on the operation of the operation button 40 will be explained in detail later.

A game ball launching handle 45 is provided protruding toward the front side at a position aligned with the lower bulge 29. When the game ball launching handle 45 is operated, a game ball is launched from the game ball launching mechanism described below.

As shown in FIG. 3, a passage forming unit 50 is attached to the back of the front door frame 14. The passage forming unit 50 is molded from synthetic resin and has a front door side upper tray passage that leads to the upper tray 28a and a front door side lower tray passage that leads to the lower tray 29a. A receiving port 53 that protrudes rearward and opens upward is formed at the upper corner of the passage forming unit 50, and the receiving port 53 is divided into left and right parts by a partition wall 54 to form an entrance portion of the front door side upper tray passage and an entrance portion of the front door side lower tray passage. The upstream side of the front door side upper tray passage and the front door side lower tray passage lead to a game ball distribution section described later, and game balls that enter the front door side upper tray passage are guided to the upper tray 28a, and game balls that enter the front door side lower tray passage are guided to the lower tray 29a.

Next, the inner frame 13 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 5. FIG. 5 is a front view of the inner frame 13. Note that in FIG. 5, the configuration within the play area of the pachinko machine 10 is omitted, as in FIG. 3.

The inner frame 13 is mainly composed of a resin base 60 whose outer shape is substantially the same as that of the outer frame 11. Support fittings 71 and 72 are attached to the upper and lower ends of the front surface of the resin base 60 on the rotation base end side (left side in FIG. 5). Furthermore, bearing fittings 57 and 58 are provided on the rotation base end side (left side in FIG. 2) of the back surface of the front door frame 14 in correspondence with the supporting fittings 71 and 72. The support fittings 71 and 72 are formed with shaft portions, and when these shaft portions are inserted into the bearing holes of the bearing fittings 57 and 58 of the front door frame 14, the front door frame 14 rotates with respect to the inner frame 13. movably supported. In other words, these support fittings 71 and 72 and bearing fittings 57 and 58 constitute an assembly mechanism for the inner frame 13.

A locking device 75 is provided on the front surface of the inner frame 13. The locking device 75 has a plurality of front door hook members 76 that extend toward the front door frame 14. Corresponding to these front door hook members 76, a plurality of hook receiving members 59 that extend toward the inner frame 13 are provided on the rear surface of the front door frame 14 (see FIG. 3). The front door hook members 76 hook onto the hook receiving members 59, thereby locking the front door frame 14 in a closed state. In addition, as shown in FIG. 4, the locking device 75 has inner frame hook members 77 that extend rearward of the inner frame 13. These inner frame hook members 77 hook onto the hook receiving members 19 of the outer frame 11, thereby locking the gaming machine main part 12 in a closed state relative to the outer frame 11.

A cylinder lock 78 for unlocking the locking device 75 is installed at the lower right corner of the resin base 60. The cylinder lock 78 is integrated into the locking device 75, and its tip portion (keyhole portion) is exposed to the front of the Pachinko machine 10 through a hole provided in the front door frame 14. By turning the key inserted into the keyhole of the cylinder lock 78 to the right, the front door frame 14 is unlocked from the inner frame 13, and by turning the key to the left, the locking of the inner frame 13 from the outer frame 11 is released. .

A game board accommodating portion 61 for accommodating a game board 80 is formed approximately at the center of the front surface of the resin base 60. The game board accommodating portion 61 is recessed at the rear of the pachinko machine 10 and defines a storage space for accommodating the game board 80, and the game board 80 attached to the resin base 60 is fitted into the storage space. It has become.

The game board 80 is made of wooden plywood and a sheet material that covers the front surface of the plywood, and the front surface is exposed to the front side of the resin base 60 through the open part of the game board housing section 61. . In this exposed portion, that is, on the front surface of the game board 80, a game area PE is formed in which the game balls flow down. As already explained, the game area PE is covered with glass panels 31 and 32. The rear glass panel 32 is designed so that the gap between it and the front surface of the game board 80 is slightly larger than the diameter of the game ball, that is, the game ball flowing down the game area PE can move back and forth at the same point in the game area PE. They are arranged so that they are not lined up. This suppresses ball clogging in the gaming area PE. Note that the game board 80 is not limited to being made of wood, but may also be made of synthetic resin.

The game board 80 (particularly the various components arranged in the play area PE) will be described below with reference to Figure 6. Figure 6 is a front view of the game board 80.

The game board 80 is processed with a router to form multiple large and small openings that penetrate the board's thickness (front-to-back direction). Each opening is provided with a general winning opening 81, a variable ball entry device 82, operating openings 83a, 83b, a through gate 84, and a variable display unit 85. When game balls enter the general winning opening 81, the variable ball entry device 82, and the operating openings 83a, 83b, they are detected by a detection switch (described below), and a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out based on the detection result. In addition, an outlet 86 is provided at the bottom of the game board 80, and game balls that do not enter the various winning openings are discharged from the game area PE through the outlet 86.

The game board 80 is also provided with numerous nails 87 to appropriately distribute and adjust the flow path of the game balls, and various components (apparatus) such as windmills are also arranged. These nails 87, windmills, and other components differentiate the flow path of the game balls, and are adjusted so that the probability of winning the general winning hole 81 described above is appropriate.

The variable ball entry device 82 is normally in a closed state in which game balls cannot or do not easily enter the ball, and is designed to switch to a predetermined open state in which game balls can easily enter the ball when a big win occurs. The opening mode of the variable ball entry device 82 is set so that the opening of the variable ball entry device 82 is repeated multiple rounds (e.g., 15 rounds) with one round being the passage of a predetermined time (e.g., 30 seconds) or the entry of a predetermined number of balls (e.g., 10 balls).

The variable display unit 85 is arranged near the upper center of the game board 80, and operating ports 83a and 83b are arranged below it. More specifically, the operating ports 83a and 83b are arranged vertically in parallel, with the operating port 83a on the upper side and the operating port 83b on the lower side. The lower operation port 83b (lower operation port 83b) is provided with an electric accessory 91 as a guide piece (support piece) consisting of a pair of left and right movable pieces. The electric accessory 91 has two states: a closed state (non-support state or non-guide state) in which it is impossible or difficult for a ball to enter the operating port 83b, and an open state (supported state) in which it is easier for a game ball to enter the operating port 83b. state or guide state), and is controlled by the main controller to be in the open state when a lottery based on winning the through gate 84 is won. As for the opening/closing mode of the electric accessories, there is a low frequency support mode which is set so that the winning frequency to the lower operating port 83b is lower than that of the upper operating port 83a (upper operating port 83a), and A high-frequency support mode is set to increase the frequency of winnings to the lower operating opening 83b, and when a predetermined winning result is obtained by lottery based on balls entering each operating opening 83a, 83b. The system is configured to transition from low-frequency support mode to high-frequency support mode.

The variable display unit 85 and the actuation ports 83a, 83b are the parts that control the gameplay and tend to attract the player's attention. By arranging the variable display unit 85 and the actuation ports 83a, 83b side-by-side in the center of the gaming machine, the amount of eye movement between them is reduced, which helps to reduce the strain on the player's eyes.

The variable display unit 85 includes a symbol display device 94 that variably displays symbols triggered by a winning in the operating ports 83a, 83b. The symbol display device 94 is configured as a liquid crystal display device including a liquid crystal display (display screen 94a), and its display contents are controlled by a display control device to be described later. Specifically, on the display screen 94a, symbols are displayed side by side on the left, middle, and right, and these symbols are scrolled up and down and displayed in a variable manner. When a jackpot occurs, a predetermined combination of symbols is stopped and displayed on a preset active line, and a transition is made to a special gaming state. Note that the display mode on the display screen 94a may be changed as follows. That is, the symbols may be displayed side by side in the upper, middle, and lower tiers, and the symbols may be displayed in a variable manner by scrolling them in the left-right direction.

Further, the variable display unit 85 includes a center frame 95 formed to surround the symbol display device 94. A first specific lamp section 96 and a second specific lamp section 97 are provided on the upper part of the center frame 95. Further, holding lamp portions 98 and 99 are provided at the upper and lower portions of the center frame 95, respectively. The lower holding lamp section 98 corresponds to the symbol display device 94 and the first specific lamp section 96, and the number of times the game ball passes through the operating ports 83a, 83b is held up to four times. The number of pending items is displayed by lighting it up. The upper holding lamp part 99 corresponds to the second specific lamp part 97, and the number of times the game balls have passed through the through gate 84 is held up to four times, and the number of held balls is displayed by lighting the holding lamp part 99. It has become so.

A main display unit 89 is arranged on the side of the variable ball entry device 82. The main display unit 89 is arranged along the lower outer edge of the gaming area PE, and protrudes forward from the front of the gaming board 80 to the front of the pachinko machine 10. The front surface of the main display unit 89 faces the glass unit 30 (specifically, the rear glass panel 32) that makes the gaming area PE visible from the front of the pachinko machine 10, and also faces the glass unit 32 on the rear side. The distance between them is narrower than one game ball. This prevents the game ball from falling in front of the front surface of the main display unit 89.

A main display section D on which a predetermined picture or the like is displayed is provided in a portion of the main display unit 89 that faces the glass unit 30. The main display section D includes an upper operating port display section that displays the lottery results based on winnings in the upper operating port 83a, and a lower operating port display section that displays the lottery results based on winnings in the lower operating port 83b. and a display section.

In the upper operating port display unit, a winning entry into the upper operating port 83a is used as a trigger to display a changing pattern, and the result of the display stopping is the clear display of the result of the internal lottery based on the winning entry into the upper operating port 83a. If the result of the internal lottery based on the winning entry into the upper operating port 83a is a winning result (jackpot result) that corresponds to a transition to the opening/closing execution mode, the display stopping is stopped in the upper operating port display unit, a specified pattern is displayed as the stopping result, and then the transition to the opening/closing execution mode is made.

In the lower operating port display unit, a winning entry into the lower operating port 83b is used as a trigger to display a changing pattern, and the result of the display stopping is the clear display of the result of the internal lottery based on the winning entry into the lower operating port 83b. If the result of the internal lottery based on the winning entry into the lower operating port 83b is a winning result (jackpot result) corresponding to a transition to the opening/closing execution mode, the display stopping is stopped in the lower operating port display unit, a specified pattern is displayed as the stopping result, and then the mode transitions to the opening/closing execution mode according to the result.

Here, based on a winning entry into either of the actuation ports 83a, 83b, a variable display is started in the corresponding actuation port display section, and one game round is played until the specified stop result is displayed and the variable display is stopped (confirmed display). However, one game round is not limited to the above, and for example, in a configuration in which a single display area is provided and the variable display is performed in that single display area regardless of whether a winning entry into either of the actuation ports 83a, 83b occurs, a variable display is started in that single display area, and one game round is played until the variable display is stopped (confirmed display) with the specified stop result displayed.

Further, the main display section D of the main display unit 89 is provided with a through gate display section that displays lottery results based on winnings in the through gate 84, in addition to the display sections for both operating ports. In the display section for the through gate, a changing display of symbols is performed using a win in the through gate 84 as a trigger, and as a result of stopping the changing display, the result of an internal lottery conducted based on a win in the through gate 84 is clearly displayed. be done. If the result of the internal lottery (support lottery) based on the winning through gate 84 is a winning result corresponding to the transition to the electric role open state, a predetermined stop result will be displayed on the through gate display section. After the variable display is stopped, the state shifts to the power open state. In the electrically powered open state, the electrically powered accessory 91 provided in the lower operating port 83b is opened in a predetermined manner.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, a configuration is adopted in which the number of times a game ball passes through the through gate 84 is held up to a maximum of four times, but the main display portion D of the main display unit 89 displays the number of held balls. A display section for the number of reservations is provided.

Each of these display sections (main display section D) can be seen from the front of the pachinko machine 10 through the glass unit 30 of the front door frame 14, and visibility is guaranteed by preventing the game ball from moving in front of these various display sections.

Referring again to FIG. 5, below the game board storage section 61 (game board 80) in the resin base 60, there is provided a game ball launching mechanism 110 that launches game balls into the game area PE based on the operation of the game ball launching handle 45. The game ball launching mechanism 110 mainly comprises a solenoid 111 that launches game balls placed at a predetermined launch waiting position, a launch rail 112 that determines the launch direction of the game balls launched by the solenoid 111, a ball delivery device 113 that supplies game balls to the launch waiting position, and a base plate 114 on which these various components 111-113 are mounted, and the base plate 114 is attached to the resin base 60 via a reinforcing plate described below.

The firing rail 112 is fixed to the base plate 114 in an obliquely inclined state so as to be inclined upward toward the game board 80 side. A ball stopper is arranged near the downstream end (that is, the lower end) of the firing rail 112 to keep the game ball supplied from the ball feeding device 113 at the firing standby position described above. The solenoid 111 is arranged at a position further downstream than the ball stopper.

The solenoid 111 is electrically connected to a power source/launch control device that will be described later. The output shaft of the solenoid 111 reciprocates in the expansion and contraction direction based on the output of an electrical signal from the power supply/launch control device, so that the game ball placed in the firing standby position is moved to the game board 80 side, more specifically, the game ball It is launched toward the guide rail 100 attached to the board 80.

The guide rail 100, together with the game area partitioning member described later, partitions the game area PE so that the outer shape of the game area PE is approximately circular. The guide rail 100 is composed of an inner rail 101 and an outer rail 102 arranged to face each other with a gap slightly larger than the diameter of the game ball, and a single guide passage 103 is partitioned and formed by both rails 101 and 102. The guide passage 103 has an entrance portion 104 that opens at the tip side (diagonally downward) of the launch rail 112, and an exit portion 105 located at the top of the game area PE. The game ball launched based on the operation of the solenoid 111 is guided to the game area PE by moving in the order of the launch rail 112 → guide rail 100 (entrance portion 104 → exit portion 105). In addition, a return prevention member 106 is attached to the game board 80 at the tip of the exit portion 105, specifically near the tip of the inner rail 101, to prevent game balls that have reached the play area PE from returning back into the guide passage 103, preventing game balls that have already reached the play area PE from interfering with the launch of subsequent game balls.

The guide rail 100 and the launch rail 112 are arranged such that the entrance portion 104 of the guide rail 100 and the tip end of the launch rail 112 diagonally face each other with a gap in between. A foul ball passage 55 (see FIG. 3) is provided below the gap thus formed. The foul ball passage 55 is integrally formed with the passage forming unit 50 of the front door frame 14. If the game balls fired from the game ball launch mechanism 110 do not reach the game area PE and return inside the guide path 103 as foul balls, those foul balls will enter the foul ball path 55 through the gap. becomes. The foul ball passage 55 communicates with the lower tray passage on the front door side, and the game balls that have entered the foul ball passage 55 are discharged to the lower tray 29a shown in FIG. 1 and the like. This suppresses interference between the foul ball and the next game ball to be fired.

The resin base 60 is also provided with multiple locking devices that can be switched between a locked state in which the game board 80 cannot be removed from the game board housing 61, and an unlocked state in which the game board 80 can be removed. The locking devices have abutting portions that come into contact with the front surface of the game board 80 in the locked state, and the abutting portions come into contact with the front surface of the game board 80 to prevent the game board 80 from being displaced toward the front door frame 14.

A through hole is formed in the resin base 60 to the left of the firing rail 112 (specifically, on the side supporting the front door frame 14), and the through hole is formed to penetrate the resin base 60 in the front and back direction. A passage forming member 121 is provided. The passage forming member 121 is screwed to the resin base 60 and has a main body side upper plate passage 122 and a main body side lower plate passage 123. The upstream sides of the main body side upper tray passage 122 and the main body side lower tray passage 123 communicate with a game ball distribution section to be described later. Further, a socket part 53 (see FIG. 3) of a passage forming unit 50 attached to the front door frame 14 is inserted below the passage forming member 121, and a socket part 53 (see FIG. 3) of the passage forming unit 50 attached to the front door frame 14 is inserted below the upper tray passage 122 on the main body side. An upper plate passage is arranged, and a front door side upper plate passage is arranged below the main body side lower plate passage 123.

A shutter 124 is provided below the passage forming member 121 in the resin base 60 to restrict the outflow of game balls from the main body side upper tray passage 122 and the main body side lower tray passage 123. The shutter 124 is supported by the resin base 60 in a switchable state between a blocking position where the exit portions of both passages are narrowed to prevent the game balls from flowing out, and a permitting position where the game balls are allowed to flow out. Further, a biasing member that biases the shutter 124 toward the blocking position is attached to the resin base 60, and when the front door frame 14 is opened relative to the inner frame 13, the shutter is closed by the biasing force of the biasing member. 124 remains in the blocking position. This avoids the inconvenience of the stored balls falling out when the front door frame 14 is opened with game balls stored in the main body side upper tray passage 122 or the main body side lower tray passage 123. . On the other hand, when the front door frame 14 is closed, the shutter 124 is pushed back to the permissible position by the receptacle 53 provided in the passage forming unit 50 of the front door frame 14 against the urging force. In this state, the main body side upper tray passage 122 and the front door side upper tray passage are in communication with the main body side lower tray passage 123 and the front door side lower tray passage, respectively, and movement of the game ball is allowed.

Next, the rear structure of the inner frame 13 (resin base 60 and game board 80) will be described with reference to Figure 7. Figure 7 is a rear view of the inner frame 13.

A bearing fitting 132 is attached to the rotation base end side (right side in FIG. 7) on the back surface of the resin base 60. Bearing parts 133 are formed in the bearing fitting 132 at vertically spaced intervals, and the back pack unit 15 is rotatably attached to the inner frame 13 by these bearing parts 133. Furthermore, a plurality of fixing levers 134 for fixing the back pack unit 15 to the inner frame 13 are provided on the back surface of the resin base 60.

As already explained, a central opening 64 is formed in the bottom portion of the game board housing portion 61 in the resin base 60, penetrating the resin base 60 in the thickness direction and opening to the rear side of the resin base 60, and the central opening 64 is covered from the front side of the inner frame 13 by the game board 80 housed in the game board housing portion 61. Various components such as a control device are mounted on the rear side of the game board 80, and these various components are exposed to the rear side of the inner frame 13 through the central opening 64. Here, the configuration of the rear side of the game board 80 will be explained in detail based on Figure 8. Figure 8 is a perspective view of the game board 80 as seen from behind.

A synthetic resin pedestal member 141 on which a variable display unit 85 (see FIG. 6) is mounted on the game board 80 is fixed to the back surface of the game board 80. The pedestal member 141 has a substantially box shape open to the game board 80 side, and covers almost the entire back surface of the game board 80. A part of the pedestal member 141 protrudes to the back side of the resin base 60 through the central opening 64 of the resin base 60, and the above-mentioned pattern display device 94 (see FIG. 6) and its pattern display are attached to the protruding portion. A display control device for driving the device 94 is attached. The symbol display device 94 and the display control device are arranged one on top of the other in the front-rear direction (thickness direction of the resin base 60) such that the symbol display device is on the front side and the display control device is on the rear side. Furthermore, the game board 80 is equipped with a notification/performance control unit located behind the display control device. The notification/performance control device unit is configured to include a notification/performance control device 142 and a mounting base 144, and the notification/performance control device 142 is mounted on the mounting base 144.

The notification/performance control device 142 is equipped with a notification/performance control board that controls the audio and lamp displays, as well as the display control device, in accordance with instructions from the main control device, which will be described later. The notification/performance control board is housed in a board box 145 made of a transparent resin material or the like.

A main control device unit 160 is provided below the notification/performance control device unit so as to cover the pedestal member 141 from behind. The main controller unit 160 includes a synthetic resin mounting base 161 fixed to the back surface of the game board 80 and a main controller 162 mounted on the mounting base 161. The main control device 162 is equipped with a main control board that has a function of controlling the main control of the game (main control circuit) and a function of monitoring the power supply (power outage monitoring circuit), and the main control board is made of a transparent resin material. It is configured to be housed in a board box 163 consisting of, etc.

The board box 163 includes a substantially rectangular parallelepiped box base (front case body) and a box cover (back case body) that covers the opening of the box base. These box base and box cover are unopenably connected by a box sealing portion 164 serving as a sealing means, thereby sealing the substrate box 163. A plurality of box sealing parts 164 are provided on the short sides of the substrate box 163, and at least one of them is used to perform the sealing process.

Any configuration can be applied to the box sealing section 164 as long as it is configured to connect the box base and the box cover in an unopenable manner, but the box base and the box cover are connected in an unopenable manner by inserting a locking pin into the locking hole that constitutes the box sealing section 164. The sealing process by the box sealing section 164 prevents unauthorized opening after the sealing, and even if unauthorized opening occurs, makes it possible to detect such a situation early and easily, and it is possible to perform the sealing process again even after it has been opened once. That is, the sealing process is performed by inserting a locking pin into at least one locking hole of the multiple box sealing sections 164. Then, when the board box 163 is opened, such as when a malfunction occurs in the stored main control board or when inspecting the main control board, the connection part between the box sealing section into which the locking pin is inserted and the main body of the board box 163 is cut. This separates the box base and box cover of the board box 163, and the main control board inside can be removed. If the sealing process is to be performed again, a locking pin is inserted into another locking hole. If a record of the board box 163 being opened is left on the board box 163, unauthorized opening can be easily detected by looking at the board box 163.

The board box 163 and the mounting base 161 are unopenably connected by a base sealing portion 165. Specifically, the pedestal sealing part 165 has a locking hole and a locking pin like the box sealing part 164, and when the locking pin is inserted into the locking hole, the base sealing part 165 is connected to the board box 163. The mounting base 161 is connected inseparably. This makes it easier to identify the fact that the board box 163 has been illegally removed.

In the part of the base member 141 facing the back surface of the game board 80, there are holes corresponding to the game board openings of the general prize opening 81, the variable ball entry device 82, the upper operating opening 83a, and the lower operating opening 83b, and on the downstream side. A collection path is formed where the materials gather in one place. As a result, all the game balls that have won the general prize opening 81 etc. are configured to gather below the game board 80 via the collection path. In other words, the pedestal member 141 is provided with a function of collecting game balls that have entered various winning holes.

A discharge passage, which will be described later, is arranged below the game board 80, and the game balls gathered below the game board 80 are led out into the discharge passage by the collection passage. The out port 86 also communicates with the discharge passage, and game balls that have not won in any of the winning ports are led out into the discharge passage through the out port 86.

In addition, in the collection passage, there is a prize opening switch that detects the game balls that have won in the general prize opening 81 on the front side of the game board 80, a count switch that detects the game balls that have won in the variable ball entry device 82, and an operating port 83a. , 83b are installed, and these various switches constitute a winning detection mechanism. Furthermore, gate switches for detecting game balls passing through the through gate 84 are provided on both the left and right sides of the variable display unit 85 in the pedestal member 141. These various switches are electrically connected to the main controller 162, and detection information from each switch is output to the main controller 162.

Next, the rear pack unit 15 will be described with reference to Figures 4 and 9. Figure 9 is a front view of the rear pack unit 15.

As shown in FIG. 4, the inner frame 13 is covered from the rear by the back pack unit 15. As shown in FIG. 9, the back pack unit 15 has a back pack 201, to which a dispensing mechanism 202, a discharge passage panel and a control device assembly unit 204 are attached.

The back pack 201 is molded from a transparent synthetic resin, and has a base part 211 to which the payout mechanism part 202 and the like are attached, and a protective cover part 212 which projects toward the rear of the pachinko machine 10 and has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. The protective cover portion 212 has a shape in which the left and right side surfaces and the top surface are closed, and only the bottom surface is open, and has a size sufficient to at least surround the variable display unit 85.

The base portion 211 is provided with an external terminal board on the upper right side thereof. The external terminal board is provided with various output terminals, and various signals are outputted to the management control device on the gaming hall side through these output terminals. Furthermore, a pair of upper and lower latching pins 214 are provided on the right end of the base portion 211 when viewed from the rear of the pachinko machine 10, and by inserting the latching pins 214 into the bearing portion 133 provided on the inner frame 13, , a back pack unit 15 is rotatably supported on the inner frame 13. The base portion 211 is formed with a plurality of insertion portions 215 through which the fixing levers 134 provided on the inner frame 13 are inserted. The back pack unit 15 is fixed to the inner frame 13 by coming into contact with the inner frame 13.

The dispensing mechanism section 202 is disposed on the base section 211 so as to bypass the protective cover section 212. The payout mechanism section 202 is provided with a tank 221 which is disposed at the top of the back pack 201 and opens upward, and the tank 221 is sequentially replenished with game balls supplied from the island equipment of the game hall. Ru. A tank rail 222 that slopes gently toward the downstream side is connected to the lower part of the tank 221, and a case rail 223 that extends in the vertical direction is connected to the downstream side of the tank rail 222. A dispensing device 224 is provided at the most downstream portion of the case rail 223 . The game balls put out by the payout device 224 are supplied to the game ball distribution section 225 provided in the base portion 211 of the back pack 201 through a payout passage (not shown) provided downstream of the payout device 224.

The game ball distribution section 225 has the function of distributing the game balls dispensed from the payout device 224 to either the upper tray 28a, the lower tray 29a, or the discharge passage described below, and is formed so that its inner opening leads to the upper tray 28a via the above-mentioned main body side upper tray passage 122 and the front door side upper tray passage, and its outer opening leads to the lower tray 29a via the main body side lower tray passage 123 and the front door side lower tray passage.

The discharge passage panel and control device assembly unit 204 are attached to the lower end of the base portion 211 so as to sandwich the lower end from the front and rear. A discharge passage that is open to the rear is formed on the surface of the discharge passage panel facing the control device assembly unit 204, and the open part of the discharge passage is blocked by the control device assembly unit 204. The discharge passage is formed so as to discharge game balls to the island equipment of the game hall, and the game balls led to the discharge passage from the above-mentioned collection passage etc. are discharged to the outside of the pachinko machine 10 by passing through the discharge passage.

The control device assembly unit 204 has a mounting base 241 having a horizontally long shape, and a dispensing control device 242 and a power source/firing control device 243 are mounted on the mounting base 241. The payout control device 242 and the power supply/launch control device 243 are arranged one on top of the other so that the payout control device 242 is located at the rear of the pachinko machine 10.

In the payout control device 242, a payout control board for controlling the payout device 224 is housed in a board box 244, and a state return switch 245 provided on the payout control board protrudes outside the board box 244. For example, when the state recovery switch 245 is pressed when a dispensing error occurs, such as a ball jam in the dispensing device 224, the ball jam is cleared.

The power supply/launch control device 243 has a power supply/launch control board housed in a board box 246, which generates and outputs the specified power required by various control devices, etc., and also controls the launch of game balls in response to the player's operation of the game ball launch handle 45. The power supply/launch control device 243 is also provided with a power switch 247. By operating the power switch 247, the power of the pachinko machine 10 can be switched between an on state (ON state) and a cut-off state (OFF state).

The pachinko machine 10 has a function for storing and holding various types of data, so that in the unlikely event of a power outage, the state at the time of the power outage is retained, and when the power returns, the state at the time of the power outage is restored. For example, if the power is cut off in the normal manner, such as when an amusement hall closes, the state before the cut-off is stored and held. The main control device 162 is provided with a RAM erase switch 166. When the power is turned on while pressing the RAM erase switch 166, the RAM data is initialized.

(Electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 10)
Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 10 in the first embodiment will be described with reference to the block diagram of FIG.

The main control board 601 provided in the main control device 162 is equipped with an MPU 602. The MPU 602 is an element incorporating a ROM 603 that stores various control programs and fixed value data executed by the MPU 602, a RAM 604 that is a memory for temporarily storing various data when executing the control programs stored in the ROM 603, an interrupt circuit, a timer circuit, a data input/output circuit, various counter circuits as random number generators, etc.

The MPU 602 is provided with an input port and an output port. Connected to the input side of the MPU 602 are a power outage monitoring board 605 provided in the main control device 162, a payout control device 242, various detection sensors 151a to 151e, and the like. The power supply/launch control device 243 is connected to the power outage monitoring board 605, and power is supplied to the MPU 602 via the power outage monitoring board 605. In addition, as a part of the various detection sensors 151a to 151e, they are provided in the winning ball entry part (the payout compatible ball entry part) such as the general winning opening 81, the variable ball entry device 82, the operating openings 83a and 83b, and the through gate 84. A plurality of detection sensors are connected to each other, and the MPU 602 of the main control device 162 makes a winning determination (ball entering determination) for each ball entering portion. The MPU 602 also executes a jackpot lottery based on winnings to the actuating ports 83a and 83b, and a support lottery based on winnings to the through gate 84.

The output side of the MPU 602 is connected to the power failure monitoring board 605, the payout control device 242, and the notification/presentation control device 142. For example, a prize ball command is output to the payout control device 242 based on the winning judgment result in the winning corresponding ball entry section. In this case, when outputting the prize ball command, the command information storage area 603e of the ROM 603 is referenced. Then, when a winning is identified in the general winning opening 81, a prize ball command corresponding to the payout of 10 game balls is output, when a winning is identified in the variable ball entry device 82, a prize ball command corresponding to the payout of 15 game balls is output, when a winning is identified in the upper operation opening 83a, a prize ball command corresponding to the payout of 3 game balls is output, and when a winning is identified in the upper operation opening 83a, a prize ball command corresponding to the payout of 4 game balls is output.

The notification and performance control device 142 outputs various commands such as a change start command (change command), a type command, a change end command, an opening command, and an ending command. In this case, when outputting these various commands, the command information storage area 603e of the ROM 603 is referenced. Details of these various commands will be explained later. Each of the above commands is configured as a predetermined number of bytes of information, and various information is included as the predetermined number of bytes of information.

Further, on the output side of the MPU 602, a variable entry ball drive unit 82c that opens and closes the opening/closing door of the variable ball entry device 82, an electric accessory drive unit 91c that opens and closes the electric accessory 91 of the lower operation opening 83b, and a main display. A unit 89 (main display section D) is connected. The main control board 601 is provided with various driver circuits, and the MPU 602 controls these various configurations through the driver circuits.

Specifically, in the opening/closing execution mode, the MPU 602 performs drive control of the variable ball entry drive unit 82c so that the variable ball entry device 82 is opened and closed. Moreover, when the open state of the electric accessory 91 of the lower operation opening 83b is determined, the drive control of the electric accessory drive unit 91c is executed in the MPU 602 so that the electric accessory 91 is opened and closed. Further, the MPU 602 executes display control of the entering ball section display section, the pending number display section, etc. of the main display section D.

The power outage monitoring board 605 relays between the main control board 601 and the power source/launch control device 243, and also monitors the stable DC voltage of 24 volts, which is the maximum voltage output from the power source/launch control device 243. The payout control device 242 controls the payout of prize balls and rental balls by the payout device 224 based on the prize ball command input from the main control device 162.

The power source/launch control device 243 is connected to, for example, a commercial power source (external power source) in a game hall or the like. Then, based on the external power supplied from the commercial power source, the necessary operating power is generated for the main control board 601, payout control device 242, etc., and the generated operating power is supplied through a predetermined power path. do. Further, the power source/launch control device 243 is responsible for controlling the launch of the game ball launch mechanism 110, and the game ball launch mechanism 110 is driven when predetermined launch conditions are met.

The notification/performance control board 611 provided in the notification/performance control device 142 is equipped with an MPU 612. The MPU 612 includes a ROM 613 that stores various control programs and fixed value data executed by the MPU 612, a RAM 614 that is a memory for temporarily storing various data when executing the control programs stored in the ROM 613, an interrupt circuit, a timer circuit, a data input/output circuit, and the like.

The MPU 612 is provided with an input port and an output port. In addition to the main control device 162, the operation button 40 (more specifically, a detection sensor built into the operation button 40) and the like are connected to the input side of the MPU 612. It is possible to determine whether or not an operation has been performed based on a detection signal (detection information) from this operation button 40. The light-emitting units 24 to 26, the speaker unit 27, the light-emitting board built into the operation button 40, and the like are connected to the output side of the MPU 612.

The MPU 612 controls the variable display unit 85 based on commands input from the main control unit 162. Specifically, the notification/performance control unit 142 grasps the variable display time of the patterns on the pattern display device 94 (whether or not a reach performance occurs) based on various commands input from the main control unit 162, and ultimately determines the type of combination of patterns to be displayed in a stopped state, as well as the details of the reach performance.

The display control device 620 has a display control board on which an MPU is mounted, and the MPU includes a program ROM that stores various control programs and fixed value data, and a program ROM that stores various control programs and fixed value data. Built-in work RAM, which is a memory for temporarily storing data, etc., a video display processor (VDP), a character ROM, which stores image data, and a video RAM, which temporarily stores image data read from the character ROM. has been done.

The VDP is a type of drawing circuit that directly operates an image processing device that serves as a liquid crystal display driver built into the pattern display device 94. The VDP is also called a "drawing chip" because it is made into an IC chip, and its actual form can be described as a microcomputer chip with built-in firmware dedicated to drawing processing. The VDP mediates the reading and writing of data by adjusting the timing of the MPU, video RAM, etc., and reads image data stored in the video RAM from the character ROM at a specified timing and displays it on the pattern display device 94.

The character ROM serves as an image data library for storing character data such as the designs displayed on the design display device 94. This character ROM holds bitmap format image data of various display designs, a color palette table that is referenced when determining the color to be displayed for each dot in the bitmap image, and the like. This image data, tables, etc. are stored in the character ROM.

Note that it is also possible to provide a plurality of character ROMs and store image data and the like in each character ROM. Furthermore, it is also possible to configure the JPEG format image data for the background image stored in the program ROM 623 to be stored in the character ROM.

The video RAM is a memory for storing display data to be displayed on the symbol display device 94, and by rewriting the contents of the video RAM, the display contents of the symbol display device 94 are changed.

The MPU of the display control device 620 executes display control of the symbol display device 94 based on commands input from the notification/presentation control device 142. Specifically, the variable display is performed for each game round according to the content of the variable display finally determined by the notification/presentation control device 142 and the type of combination of symbols to be displayed in a stopped state. Here, we will provide additional explanation on the display content of the symbol display device 94 (display screen 94a).

The display screen 94a of the pattern display device 94 has three pattern rows, left, center, and right. Each pattern row is configured with main and sub-patterns arranged in a predetermined order. In detail, in the left pattern row, nine main patterns from "1" to "9" are arranged in descending numerical order, and one sub-pattern is arranged between each main pattern. In the right pattern row, nine main patterns from "1" to "9" are arranged in ascending numerical order, and one sub-pattern is arranged between each main pattern. In other words, the upper and lower pattern rows are configured with 18 patterns. In contrast, in the middle pattern row, nine main patterns from "1" to "9" are arranged in ascending numerical order, and a main pattern of "4" is additionally arranged between the main pattern of "9" and the main pattern of "1", and one sub-pattern is arranged between each of these main patterns. That is, the middle symbol row is composed of 20 symbols, with 10 main symbols arranged in total. The symbols of each symbol row are displayed on the display screen 94a in a cyclical manner, scrolling in a predetermined direction. The display screen 94a also displays three symbols for each symbol row, resulting in a total of nine symbols (3 x 3) being displayed in a static manner.

The display screen 94a also has five active lines, namely an upper line, a middle line, a lower line L3, a right downward line, and a right upward line. The display stops in the order of the left pattern row → the right pattern row → the middle pattern row, and when the display of all the pattern rows ends with a combination of patterns with the same number on any of the active lines, a jackpot video is displayed to indicate that a normal jackpot result or a special jackpot result, which will be described later, has occurred.

In this pachinko machine 10, main symbols with odd numbers (1, 3, 5, 7, 9) correspond to "specific symbols", and when a special jackpot result occurs, a combination of the same specific symbols is displayed. Main symbols with even numbers (2, 4, 6, 8) correspond to "non-specific symbols", and when a normal jackpot result occurs, a combination of the same non-specific symbols is displayed.

Note that the manner in which the symbols are displayed in a variable manner in the symbol display device 94 is not limited to the above-mentioned one, but may be arbitrary, and may include the number of symbol rows, the direction in which the symbols are displayed in a fluctuating manner in the symbol rows, the number of symbols in each symbol row, etc. can be changed as appropriate. Furthermore, the symbols displayed in a variable manner on the symbol display device 94 are not limited to the above-mentioned symbols. For example, a configuration in which only numbers are displayed in a variable manner as a symbol may be used, and a symbol without a number may be displayed in a variable manner. It may also be configured with only the symbols included or without numbers attached.

To further explain how the symbols are displayed in the symbol display device 94, in this pachinko machine 10, the reach display is performed as a step before the corresponding symbol combination is stopped and displayed when notifying the jackpot result as described above. It is set as follows. A reach display (a reach effect or a reach state) is a game round that is equipped with a symbol display device 94 that can perform variable display (or variable display) of symbols (pictures) and is in an opening/closing execution mode of the variable entry device 82. Now, in a gaming machine where the stop display result after the variable display is the special display result, there is a stage after the start of the variable display (or variable display) of symbols (pictures) on the symbol display device 94 and before the stop display result is derived and displayed. This refers to a display state that makes the player think that this is a variable display state that is likely to result in the above-mentioned special display result.

In other words, by stopping and displaying the symbols for some of the plurality of symbol columns displayed on the display screen 94a of the symbol display device 94, a combination of jackpot symbols corresponding to the occurrence of the opening/closing execution mode is established. This is a display state in which possible combinations of ready-to-win symbols are displayed, and in that state, symbols are displayed in a variable manner in the remaining symbol rows.

More specifically, as a step before ending the fluctuating display of symbols, a combination of jackpot symbols corresponding to the occurrence of the opening/closing execution mode is established on a preset active line on the display screen 94a of the symbol display device 94. A reach line is formed by stopping and displaying combinations of reach symbols that are likely to occur, and symbols are fluctuated and displayed by a final stop symbol sequence under the situation where the reach line is formed.

To give a supplementary explanation about the reach display, first, the fluctuating display of symbols is finished in the left symbol column, and then the fluctuating display of symbols is finished in the right symbol column, then the same number is attached to any active line. A reach line is formed by the main symbol being stopped and displayed, and in a situation where the reach line is formed, a fluctuating display of the symbols by the middle symbol row is performed, resulting in a reach display. When the opening/closing execution mode occurs, the main symbols with the same numbers as the main symbols forming the reach line are stopped and displayed on the reach line, and the symbols in the middle symbol row change. Display ends.

In addition, in the reach display, while displaying the combination of reach symbols as described above, the remaining symbol rows display fluctuating symbols, and the background screen displays a predetermined character etc. as a moving image. These include those that perform a reach effect, and those that perform a reach effect by displaying a predetermined character or the like as a moving image on substantially the entire display screen 94a after reducing or not displaying a combination of ready-to-reach symbols.

In this pachinko machine 10, when performing the above-mentioned reach display, the expectation level that a jackpot result will occur afterwards, that is, the main symbol with the same number as the main symbol forming the reach line in the reach display, As one of the effects indicating the degree of expectation that the symbols will be stopped and displayed on the reach line, an effect corresponding to the operation using the operation button 40 is set, thereby diversifying the game effects. Specifically, when the operation button 40 is operated (specifically, pressed) as part of various reach effects, the effect display on the display screen is handled differently from when the operation is not performed. An effect such as a display is set.

(Regarding various counters)
Next, the electrical configuration for performing various lotteries by the MPU 602 of the main control device 162 will be described with reference to FIG.

During the game, the MPU 602 uses various counter information to perform jackpot occurrence lottery, settings for the display on the operating opening display section, general settings for the symbol display on the symbol display device 94, etc. Specifically, it determines when the jackpot occurs. A jackpot random number counter C1 used in the lottery, a jackpot type counter C2 used when determining the jackpot type such as a variable jackpot result or a normal jackpot result, and a jackpot type counter C2 used when performing a variable display corresponding to a winning result on the symbol display device 94. A reach random number counter C3 used for reach lottery, etc., a random number initial value counter CINI used to set the initial value of the jackpot random number counter C1, and a fluctuation type counter that determines the fluctuation display time on the operating opening display section and symbol display device 94. CS is used. Furthermore, an electric accessory release counter C4 is used to determine whether or not the electric accessory 91 of the lower operating port 83b is to be brought into an electric role release state (support state). The counters C1 to C3, CINI, CS, and C4 are provided in various counter areas 604d of the RAM 604.

Each time counter C1-C3, CINI, CS, C4 is updated, 1 is added to the previous value, and it is a loop counter that returns to 0 after reaching the maximum value. Each counter is updated at short intervals, and the updated value is appropriately stored in lottery counter buffer 604a set in a specified area of RAM 604. When a winning occurs in operation port 83a, 83b, the information stored in lottery counter buffer 604a (information corresponding to jackpot random number counter C1, jackpot type counter C2, and reach random number counter C3) is stored in reserved ball storage area 604b provided as "acquired information storage means" in RAM 604.

The reserved ball storage area 604b has a reserved area for the operating port and an execution area. The reserved areas have a first area, a second area, a third area, and a fourth area, and the numerical information of the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2, and the reach random number counter C3 stored in the lottery counter buffer 604a is stored in one of the first to fourth areas as reserved information according to the winning history of the operating ports 83a and 83b. This reserved information corresponds to "special information."

When multiple consecutive wins occur at the actuation ports 83a and 83b, the first to fourth areas store the numerical information in chronological order from the first area to the second area to the third area to the fourth area. By providing four areas in this way, up to four balls entering the actuation ports 83a and 83b can be reserved and stored. In addition, the reserved ball storage area 604b is provided with a total reserved number storage area, which stores information for specifying the number of reserved information acquired and stored based on balls entering the actuation ports 83a and 83b.

The execution area is an area for moving each numerical information stored in the first area of the holding area when starting the variable display of the operating opening display section, and when starting one game round, the numerical information is moved to the execution area. Judgments are made based on the various numerical information stored.

The jackpot random number counter C1 is configured to increment by one within the range of, for example, 0 to 599, and return to 0 after reaching a maximum value. In particular, when the jackpot random number counter C1 goes around once, the value of the random number initial value counter CINI at that time is read as the initial value of the jackpot random number counter C1. The random number initial value counter CINI is a loop counter similar to the jackpot random number counter C1 (value = 0 to 599). The jackpot random number counter C1 is updated periodically, and is stored in the reserved ball storage area 604b of the RAM 604 when a game ball enters the operation port 83a, 83b.

The random number value that results in a jackpot win is stored as a win/lose table (win/lose information group) in a win/lose table storage area 603a, which serves as a win/lose information group storage means in ROM 603. As win/lose tables, a win/lose table for a low probability mode (win/lose information group for low probability) and a win/lose table for a high probability mode (win/lose information group for high probability) are set. In other words, in this pachinko machine 10, a low probability mode (low probability state) and a high probability mode (high probability state) are set as lottery modes in the win/lose lottery selection means.

In a game state where the win/lose table for the low probability mode is referenced in the above lottery, the random number value that will result in a jackpot win is two. On the other hand, in a game state where the win/lose table for the high probability mode is referenced in the above lottery, the random number value that will result in a jackpot win is twenty. In this case, the value group of the jackpot random number counter C1 that will result in a jackpot win in a low probability mode situation is included in the value group of the jackpot random number counter C1 that will result in a jackpot win in a high probability mode situation. Note that the number and value of the random numbers that will result in a win are arbitrary, as long as the probability of winning is higher in the high probability mode than in the low probability mode.

The jackpot type counter C2 is incremented by one within the range of 0 to 29, and returns to 0 after it reaches its maximum value (i.e., 29). The jackpot type counter C2 is updated periodically, and is stored in the reserved area of reserved ball storage area 604b of RAM 604 when a game ball enters operation port 83a, 83b.

The destinations to which game results are distributed to the jackpot type counter C2 are stored as a distribution table (distribution information group) in a distribution table storage area 603b serving as distribution information group storage means in the ROM 603. In the distribution table, the probability variable jackpot result and the normal jackpot result are set as the destinations to which the game results are allocated.

The variable probability jackpot result is a jackpot result in which the variable ball entry device 82 is opened 15 times in the opening/closing execution mode. After the opening/closing execution mode ends, the lottery mode becomes a high probability mode and the support mode becomes a high frequency support mode. The gaming state corresponding to the high-probability mode and the high-frequency support mode (hereinafter referred to as the "high-probability gaming state") continues until the next jackpot result is achieved.

A normal jackpot result is one in which the variable ball entry device 82 opens 15 times in the open/close execution mode. After the open/close execution mode ends, the lottery mode becomes the low probability mode and the support mode becomes the high frequency support mode. The game state corresponding to the low probability mode and the high frequency support mode (hereinafter referred to as the high probability game state) continues until the number of games executed after the transition to the high probability game state reaches the termination reference number (upper limit number: specifically, 100 times), and when the termination reference number is reached, the game state switches to the game state corresponding to the low probability mode and the low frequency support mode (hereinafter referred to as the low probability game state).

The reach random number counter C3 is configured to be incremented by one within the range of, for example, 0 to 238, and to return to 0 after it reaches a maximum value (i.e., 238). The reach random number counter C3 is periodically updated, and is stored in the reserved ball storage area 604b of the RAM 604 when a gaming ball enters the operating port 83a, 83b. More specifically, it is stored in the reserved area of the RAM 604 when a gaming ball enters the operating port 83a, 83b. Then, it is decided whether or not to generate a reach based on the reach table stored in the reach table storage area of the ROM 603. However, in a game round that transitions to the open/close execution mode, the MPU 602 decides whether or not to generate a reach regardless of the value of the reach random number counter C3.

The variation type counter CS is configured to increment by one within the range of, for example, 0 to 198, and return to 0 after it reaches a maximum value (i.e., 198). The variation type counter CS is used by the MPU 602 to determine the variation display time in the operating port display section and the variation display time of the pattern in the pattern display device 94. The variation type counter CS is updated once each time the normal processing described below is executed, and is also repeatedly updated within the remaining time in the normal processing. The buffer value of the variation type counter CS is then acquired when determining the variation pattern at the start of the pattern variation by the pattern display device 94.

When determining the variable display time on the symbol display device 94 or the main display section D (actuating mouth display section), the buffer values of the reach random number counter C3 and the variation type counter CS are stored in the variable display time table storage area 603c of the ROM 603. The displayed variable display time table is referred to. In addition, the MPU 602 determines the stop result (picture) on the operating opening display section using the value of the jackpot random number counter C1 and the value of the jackpot type counter C2 stored in the execution area. The stop result table stored in the stop result table storage area 603d of the ROM 603 is used.

For example, the electric accessory release counter C4 is configured such that it is sequentially incremented by 1 within the range of 0 to 249, and returns to 0 after reaching the maximum value (that is, 249). The electric accessory opening counter C4 is updated regularly and is stored in the electric role holding area 604c of the RAM 604 at the timing when a game ball enters the through gate 84. Then, at a predetermined timing, a lottery is performed to determine whether or not to control the electric accessory 91 attached to the lower operating port 83b to the open state based on the stored value of the electric accessory opening counter C4. For example, if C4=0 to 199, the electric accessory 91 is controlled to be in the open state, and if C4=200 to 249, the electric accessory 91 is not controlled to be in the open state.

(Regarding various processes executed by the MPU 602 of the main control board 601)
Next, we will explain each control process executed by the MPU 602 of the main control board 601. The processes of the MPU 602 are roughly divided into main processing that is started when the power is turned on, normal processing that is executed after the main processing ends, and timer interrupt processing that is started by periodically interrupting the normal processing. For the sake of convenience, we will first explain the timer interrupt processing, and then explain the normal processing.

(timer interrupt processing)
First, timer interrupt processing will be explained with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 12. This process is started by the MPU 602 periodically (for example, every 2 msec).

In step S101, a process of reading various detection sensors, for example (sensors 151a to 151e) is executed. That is, the state of the various detection sensors connected to the main control device 162 is read, and the state of the detection sensor (detection information from the detection sensor) is determined and the detection information (winning detection information) is saved. For example, if it is determined that a ball has entered the upper operating port 83a, a winning detection flag for the upper operating port is stored in the various flag storage area 604e of the RAM 604, and if it is determined that a ball has entered the lower operating port 83b, a winning detection flag for the lower operating port is stored in the various flag storage area 604e of the RAM 604. Also, if it is determined that a game ball has passed through the through gate 84, a winning detection flag for the through gate is stored in the various flag storage area 604e of the RAM 604.

Thereafter, in step S102, the random number initial value counter CINI is updated. Specifically, the random number initial value counter CINI is incremented by 1, and when the counter value reaches the maximum value, it is cleared to 0. Then, the updated value of the random number initial value counter CINI is stored in the corresponding buffer area of the RAM 604.

In the subsequent step S103, the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2, the reach random number counter C3, and the electric accessory release counter C4 are updated. Specifically, the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2, the reach random number counter C3, and the electric accessory release counter C4 are each incremented by 1, and when these counter values reach the maximum value, they are each cleared to 0. Then, the updated values of each counter C1 to C4 are stored in the corresponding buffer area of the RAM 604.

In the next step S104, a winning process for through is executed in response to a win at the through gate 84. In the winning process for through, it is determined whether or not a winning detection flag for the through gate is stored in the various flag storage area 604e of the RAM 604, and if the flag is stored, the value of the electric role release counter C4 updated in step S103 is stored in the electric role holding area 604c, provided that the number of reserved roles stored in the electric role holding area 604c is less than 4. Then, if a winning detection flag for the through gate is stored in the various flag storage area 604e, the winning detection flag is erased and the winning process for the through gate is terminated.

After executing the winning process for the through gate in step S104, the process proceeds to step S105, in which the winning process for the actuating opening associated with winning to the actuating ports 83a and 83b is executed, and this timer interrupt process ends. do.

In the winning process for the operating port, first, it is determined whether the game ball has entered the upper operating port 83a (starting winning) or not, and whether or not the winning detection flag for the upper operating port is stored in the various flag storage area 604e of the RAM 604. Judgment depends on whether If it is determined that the winning detection flag is stored, that is, if a detection signal indicating that a winning game ball has entered the upper operating port 83a is received, three game balls are paid to the payout control device 242. Set the prize ball command to make it appear. Then, an external signal setting process is performed to output a signal to the hall computer HC on the game hall side with information indicating that a game ball has won a prize in the upper operating port 83a. As a result, the hall computer HC recognizes that a winning has occurred in the upper operating port 83a. Thereafter, information acquisition processing is performed to store the values of the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2, and the reach random number counter C3, and the main prize winning processing is ended.

On the other hand, if the winning detection flag for the upper actuation port is not stored in the various flag storage area 604e of the RAM 604, that is, if a winning occurs in the lower actuation port 83b rather than the upper actuation port 83a, a prize ball command is set in the payout control device 242 to pay out four game balls. The set prize ball command is sent to the payout control device 242 in the external output process of the normal process described below. Next, an external signal setting process is performed to output information indicating that a game ball has won in the lower actuation port 83b to the hall computer HC on the gaming hall side. This allows the hall computer HC to understand that a winning has occurred in the lower actuation port 83b. After that, an information acquisition process is performed to store the values of the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2, and the reach random number counter C3, and this winning process is terminated.

On the other hand, if the game ball does not enter either the upper operating port 83a or the lower operating port 83b, the winning process ends.

The information acquisition process first determines whether the set start pending memory count is less than the upper limit (4 in this embodiment). If the start pending memory count is the upper limit, the information acquisition process ends. If the start pending memory count is less than the upper limit, the start pending memory count in the corresponding result display unit pending area is incremented by 1, and the value stored in the total pending memory count storage area (hereinafter referred to as the common pending count) is incremented by 1.

Then, the updated values of the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2, the reach random number counter C3, and the variation type counter CS are stored in the first free memory area of the corresponding result display section holding area, i.e., the memory area corresponding to the number of held memories incremented by 1.

In other words, when the starting hold memory number for the actuating opening is set, the updated values of the jackpot random number counter C1, jackpot type counter C2, reach random number counter C3, and fluctuation type counter CS are held for the actuating opening. It is stored in the first storage area among the free storage areas of the area, that is, the holding area corresponding to the starting holding storage number for the lower operating opening which is incremented by one.

Next, the system executes a pending information confirmation process and a pending command setting process, which are processes for making the notification/performance control device 142 and the display control device 620, which are the sub-side (auxiliary) control devices, recognize that a win has occurred at the upper operation port 83a or the lower operation port 83b. After that, if the above-mentioned winning detection flag is stored, the flag is erased and this information acquisition process ends. The pending command set in the pending command setting process is sent to the notification/performance control device 142 in the external output process of the normal processing described later.

(normal processing)
Next, the flow of normal processing will be explained with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The normal process is a process that is started after the main process that is started upon power-on is executed, and in this normal process, the main process of the game is executed. As an overview, the processing in steps S201 to S206 is executed as a periodic process with a period of 4 msec, and the counter update processing in steps S208 and S209 is executed in the remaining time.

In normal processing, in step S201, output data such as commands set in the timer interrupt processing or the previous normal processing is sent to each control device on the sub side. Specifically, the presence or absence of a prize ball command is determined, and if a prize ball command is set, it is sent to the payout control device 242. In addition, if a command for presentation such as a command corresponding to the presentation for a game round, such as a fluctuation start command, type command, or fluctuation end command, or a command corresponding to the presentation for the open/close execution mode is set, it is sent to the notification/presentation control device 142. Output settings for the external terminal board 213 are made according to the information set in the external output buffer of RAM 604.

Next, in step S202, update processing of the variation type counter CS is executed. Specifically, the variation type counter CS is incremented by 1, and when the counter value reaches the maximum value, the counter value is cleared to 0. Then, the updated value of the variation type counter CS is stored in the corresponding buffer area of the RAM 604.

In the next step S203, a game round control process is executed to progress each game round. In this game round control process, a win/loss determination is made for a jackpot, etc., and a distribution determination is made for the type of jackpot. In addition, the outline of the pattern change display mode by the pattern display device 94 is set, and the display control of the operation port display section in the main display unit 89 (main display section D) is performed.

Then, in step S204, a game state transition process is executed to transition the game state. This game state transition process transitions the game state to an open/close execution mode, a high probability mode, a high frequency support mode, or the like.

In step S205, an electric role support process is executed to drive and control the electric role 91 provided in the lower operating port 83b. In this electric role support process, an electric role opening lottery (support lottery) is executed to determine whether or not the electric role 91 is opened using numerical information acquired from the electric role opening counter C4 stored in the electric role reservation area 604c of the RAM 604, and if the electric role opening state is selected, the opening and closing process of the electric role 91 is executed. In addition, the display control of the through gate display section in the main display unit 89 (main display section D) is executed to inform the result of the electric role opening lottery.

As already explained, a low-frequency support mode and a high-frequency support mode are set as modes of support by the electric accessory 91, and a transition to either of the support modes is performed in the game state transition process. In this case, if the high frequency support flag is set in the various flag storage area 604e of the RAM 604, the mode is high frequency support mode, and if the flag is not set, the mode is low frequency support mode.

Incidentally, when switching to the opening/closing execution mode, even if the high-frequency support flag is set in the various flag storage area 604e of the RAM 604, the support mode is forcibly set to the low-frequency support mode.

In the following step S206, a game ball launch control process is executed. In the game ball launch control process, a predetermined launch is performed on the condition that a launch permission signal output from the power supply/launch control device 243 is input when a launch operation is performed on the game ball launch handle 45. The solenoid 111 of the game ball firing mechanism 110 is excited once every period (0.6 sec in this embodiment). As a result, the game ball is launched toward the game area PE. In other words, if an irregular hit such as a so-called stop shot is not performed, the game ball is repeatedly fired at a predetermined period on the condition that a firing operation is performed.

In the next step S207, it is determined whether the timing for executing the next normal process has arrived, i.e., whether a predetermined time (4 msec in this embodiment) has elapsed since the start of the previous normal process. Then, within the remaining time until the timing for executing the next normal process, the random number initial value counter CINI and the fluctuation type counter CS are repeatedly updated. That is, in step S208, the random number initial value counter CINI is updated, and in step S209, the fluctuation type counter CS is updated.

Here, since the execution time of each process in steps S201 to S206 changes depending on the state of the game, the remaining time until the execution timing of the next normal process is not constant but fluctuates. Therefore, by repeatedly updating the random number initial value counter CINI using the remaining time, the random number initial value counter CINI (that is, the initial value of the winning random number counter C1) can be randomly updated, and similarly, The variation type counter CS can also be updated randomly.

As already explained, in this embodiment, the outline of the variable display mode of the patterns on the display screen 94a is identified by the notification/presentation control device 142 with reference to commands from the main control device 162, and the details of the variable display mode are determined by the notification/presentation control device 142 based on the identification results. In order to perform such an operation, the MPU 612 of the notification/presentation control device 142 executes a variable display control process (processing for a game round) as part of periodic processing that is activated at a predetermined cycle (e.g., 2 msec). The variable display control process will be explained below with reference to the flowchart in Figure 14(a).

(Variable display control processing)
In the variable display control process, first, in step S301, it is determined whether or not a game is being played, that is, whether or not a variable display or a fixed display of the patterns for one game is being executed on the pattern display device 94. If it is determined that a game is not being played, the process proceeds to step S302, where it is determined whether or not a variable start command transmitted from the main control device 162 has been received.

If a negative determination is made in step S302, the present fluctuation display control process is directly ended. On the other hand, if an affirmative determination is made in step S302, the variation display control process is ended after the variation start process is executed in step S303. The fluctuation start process is a process for starting the performance of the game round based on receiving the fluctuation command transmitted from the main control device 162. In the variation start process, settings are made for the reach display and the above-mentioned operation-compatible effects as effects for the game round.

Returning to the explanation of step S301, if a positive judgment is made in step S301, i.e., if it is judged that a game round is in progress, the process proceeds to step S304. In step S304, it is judged whether or not a fluctuation end command sent from the main control unit 162 has been received. If a negative judgment is made in step S304, the fluctuation in progress processing is executed in step S305, and then the fluctuation display control processing is terminated. The fluctuation in progress processing is a process for executing various effects and changing the determined effects in the game round started by the fluctuation start processing.

If a positive judgment is made in step S304, the process proceeds to step S306, where a process for ending the variation is executed, and then this variation display control process is terminated. In the process for ending the variation, the variable display of the patterns and the currently being performed presentation are terminated (confirmed and stopped) in accordance with the hold information for the relevant game round. In this process, the speaker unit 27 and the lamp units 24 to 26 are driven and controlled to perform a presentation corresponding to the confirmed stop. Then, a confirmation command is output to the display control device 620, and this variation end process is terminated. The MPU of the display control device 620 controls the pattern display device 94 to confirm and stop the patterns based on the received confirmation command.

(Processing for starting fluctuations)
Here, with reference to the flowchart in FIG. 14(b), a supplementary explanation will be given of the fluctuation start processing in step S303.

In the process for starting the fluctuation, first, in step S310, the currently received fluctuation start command is read, and information on whether or not a reach has occurred and information on the fluctuation display time are identified from the command. Also, as already explained, when a fluctuation start command is sent from the main control device 162, a type command is also sent together. In step S310, the type command received together with the currently received fluctuation command is read, and information on the game result, such as information on the result of a guaranteed jackpot, information on a normal jackpot, or information on a miss result, is identified from the command. Then, in step S310, information on whether or not a jackpot has been won, information on the type of jackpot if a jackpot has been won, information on whether or not a reach has occurred if a jackpot has not been won, and information on the fluctuation display time are identified from the identified information, and the identified information is stored in a register of the MPU 612.

In the next step S311, the stop result of the patterns at the end of the current round of play is determined based on the information obtained in step S310 (stop result determination process is performed). In addition, the effect setting process determines the variable display mode of the patterns (variable display mode determination process (effect pattern determination process) is performed). The variable display modes of the patterns executed on the display screen 94a of the pattern display device 94 are broadly divided into five types: complete miss, normal reach A, normal reach B, super reach A, super reach B, and super reach C. For each of these variable display modes, the variable display time is set to be different, and it is possible to grasp an overview of the variable display mode for each round of play based on the information related to the variable display time given in the command from the main control device 162.

After executing the process in step S311, the process advances to step S312. In step S312, the details of the effect to be executed in the relevant game round are determined. In the present embodiment, this type of performance includes a performance in which the possibility of a jackpot result in a later game round is executed in a preceding game round (a so-called look-ahead performance), and a performance that corresponds to the operation of the operation button 40. There are effects corresponding to the operations performed. In the process of step S312, it is determined whether or not to execute these various effects in the relevant game round.

After executing the processing of step S312, the process proceeds to step S313. In step S313, the information determined in the processing of steps S311 and S312 is added to the fluctuation start command. After the performance information is added to the fluctuation start command in this manner, the fluctuation start command is transferred to the display control device 620 in step S314. Based on receiving this fluctuation start command, the display control device 620 determines the fluctuation display mode of the patterns and the presence or absence of various performances, and starts the fluctuation display of the patterns (play round).

After executing the transfer process in step S314, in step S315, a process to start the performance for the game round is executed, and then the main variation start process is ended. Specifically, the speaker unit 27 and the lamp units 24 to 26 are controlled based on the performance pattern determined in steps S311 and S312 to start the performance for the game round.

In this embodiment, a first effect and a second effect are provided as effects corresponding to the operation of the operation button 40. Although these first effects and second effects are common in that they are executed after transitioning to the ready-to-reach display, there are differences in the mode of operation and the change in display content caused by the operation.

In addition, the flow of the effects corresponding to the operation of the operation button 40 includes a case where the first effect is executed alone, a case where the second effect is executed independently, and a case where both the first effect and the second effect are executed. There are cases where it is executed. If both the first performance and the second performance are executed, the second performance will start when the first performance ends, and the performances corresponding to the operations will continue in the order of the first performance and then the second performance. Become.

(1st performance)
In the first performance, when the player operates the operation button 40, an effect is generated on the display screen 94a of the symbol display device 94 to surround the variable display area of the symbol. There are five patterns for this effect: white, blue, yellow, green, and red, and the effect colors are arranged so that the expectation of a jackpot is higher in the order of white < blue < yellow < green < red. has been granted. Specifically, when the first effect is executed in a game round that results in a jackpot result, white < blue < yellow < green < red is more likely to be selected in the order of When one effect is executed, the colors are more likely to be selected in the order of red < green < yellow < blue < white.

When the first performance is executed, a button icon consisting of an image imitating the operation button 40 and an image imitating the operation direction of the operation button 40 is displayed on the display screen 94a of the pattern display device 94 as an image suggesting an operation. When the button icon is displayed, an effect occurs on the display screen 94a when the operation button 40 is operated (initial operation). The button icon continues to be displayed even after the effect occurs, and by repeatedly operating the operation button 40 in response to this, the color of the effect may change (step up) in response to the repeated operation.

Specifically, when the first effect is executed, the final attainable color and the color displayed in response to the initial operation are determined. The color displayed in response to the initial operation is set to be the same as or lower than the final attainable color, and downgrading of the effect color is restricted. If there is a difference between these two colors, a step-up of the difference is allowed, but if there is no difference, no step-up occurs even if the operation is repeated.

For example, if red is set as the final achievable color and yellow is set as the color corresponding to the initial operation, a step-up from yellow to green to red may occur depending on the operation. In this case, the condition for stepping up the display color (the number of operations in this embodiment) is set when the decision to perform the first performance is made. For example, if "number of operations = 5 times" is set as the condition for the first step-up and "number of operations = 10 times" is set as the condition for the second step-up, a yellow effect occurs with the first operation, and then when the operation button 40 is pressed repeatedly or the like and the number of operations reaches 5, the effect changes from yellow to green, and when the number of operations reaches 10, the effect changes from green to red.

Since the level of expectation increases as the color ranks higher, it is assumed that a player who expects a jackpot result will hit the operation button 40 repeatedly in hopes of stepping up the effect.

In the first performance, an operation reception period is set for accepting the operation of the operation button 40, and at the timing when this operation reception period has elapsed, the final effect display is performed. Specifically, the effect flashes in the color that is finally displayed, indicating that the effect has been finalized. Although the display of this effect will continue until the end of the game, changes in the effect will be restricted after the operation acceptance period has elapsed.

Note that if the operation button 40 is not operated during the first performance (during the operation acceptance period), the first performance ends without any effect being generated.

In a gaming machine of the type in which an effect is executed that assumes the operation button 40 is repeatedly pressed, such as the first effect described above, the monotony of the game can be suppressed by diversifying the operation mode of the operation button 40. However, since the repeated pressing of the operation button 40 is a factor that increases the burden on the player, it cannot be denied that the operation is not actually performed in the expected manner. In this embodiment, therefore, in consideration of such a reality, an operation support function is provided, and specifically, one of the features is that the burden on the player is reduced by assuming that a predetermined operation has been performed as a repeated press. Below, with reference to the flowchart in FIG. 15(a), the operation judgment process executed as part of the regular processing by the MPU 612 of the notification/effect control device 142 in order to exercise the operation support function will be described.

(Operation determination process)
In the operation determination process, first, in step S401, it is determined whether or not an operation detection flag is stored in the various flag storage area 614a of the RAM 614. If an affirmative determination is made in step S401, the operation detection flag is deleted. The operation detection flag is a flag that is stored in the various flag storage area 614a when it is determined that an operation has been performed. Understand the operation status based on presence/absence.

After executing the process of step S402, or if a negative judgment is made in step S401, the process proceeds to step S403. In step S403, it is judged whether or not a HI level signal has been received from the operation button 40 (more specifically, an attached detection sensor). In this embodiment, when the operation button 40 is in the standby position (non-operation position), a LOW level signal is input to the notification/performance control device 142, and when the operation button 40 is pressed into the operation position, a HI level signal is input to the notification/performance control device 142. In step S403, the presence or absence of operation is determined based on the detection information (signal) from the operation button 40. Note that it is also possible to reverse the relationship of the binary signals, so that when the operation button 40 is operated, a LOW level signal is input, and when it is not operated, a HI level signal is input.

If an affirmative determination is made in step S403, the process advances to step S404. In step S404, it is determined whether the operation support flag is stored in the various flag storage area 614a of the RAM 614. If a negative determination is made in step S404, the process advances to step S405. In step S405, it is determined whether the value of the mode switching counter provided in the various counter areas 614b of the RAM 614 is "0". If an affirmative determination is made in step S405, the process advances to step S406 and updates processing for the mode switching counter is executed. Specifically, "1" is added to the mode switching counter.

After executing the process of step S406, the operation response process is executed in step S407, and then the operation determination process is terminated. In the operation response process, an operation detection flag is stored in the various flag storage area 614a of the RAM 614, and a light emission signal is output to temporarily illuminate the operation lamp unit built into the center frame 95.

Returning to the explanation of step S405, if a negative determination is made in step S405, the process advances to step S408. In step S408, it is determined whether the mode switching counter has reached a predetermined value. As already explained, the mode switching counter is configured to be updated when a HI level signal is received from the operation button 40. The above predetermined value is defined so that the period (number of times) during which the HI level signal is continuously received is a predetermined period (2 seconds in this embodiment). That is, when the period during which the HI level signal is continuously received (the period during which the operation button 40 is pressed) is 2 seconds, an affirmative determination is made in step S408.

If a positive determination is made in step S408, the process proceeds to step S409. In step S409, an operation support flag is stored in the various flag storage area 614a of the RAM 614. This means that the operation support function is enabled from this point on (a transition to operation support mode occurs). After the process of step S409 is executed, an operation response process is executed in step S407, and then this operation determination process is terminated.

On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S408, i.e., if it is determined that the mode switching counter has not yet reached the "predetermined value," the process proceeds to step S410. After performing an update process similar to that in step S406 in step S410, the operation determination process ends.

Returning to the explanation of step S404, if it is determined that the operation support flag is stored in the various flag storage area 614a of the RAM 614, i.e., if the operation support function is enabled, the process proceeds to step S411. In step S411, it is determined whether a preset interval period (0.2 sec in this embodiment) has elapsed since the previous storage of the operation detection flag. In this embodiment, if it is confirmed that the operation button 40 has been pressed and held for 2 sec, the long press can be continued to cause automatic repeated pressing, which causes the same event as when the operation button 40 is pressed repeatedly. The above-mentioned interval period is set as the operation interval when this automatic repeated pressing is performed.

Here, with reference to the schematic diagram of FIG. 15(b), an example of how the actual operation is accepted will be explained. When the operation button 40 is manually pressed repeatedly, the detection signal switches from LOW level to HI level to LOW level each time the operation is performed, as shown in the left part of FIG. 15(b). In this case, it is determined that the operation has been performed when the detection signal rises to the HI level.

On the other hand, when the operation button 40 is kept pressed, the detection signal rises to the HI level at the timing when the operation is started, as shown in the right part of FIG. 15(b). At this time, it is determined that the first operation has been performed. Thereafter, when the pressed state continues for 2 seconds, the support function is enabled and it is determined that the second operation has been performed. Thereafter, it will be determined that the operation has been performed at a cycle of 0.2 seconds until the user releases the operation button 40 and the operation button 40 returns from the operation position. For example, when the first performance is being performed, automatic repeated hits are executed by long-pressing the operation button 40. With such a configuration, it is possible to reduce the burden on the player and suppress the occurrence of the above-mentioned inconvenience.

Referring again to FIG. 15A, if a negative determination is made in step S403, that is, if a LOW level signal is being received from the operation button 40, the process advances to step S412. In step S412, the mode switching counter is cleared to 0 (reset). In the following step S413, it is determined whether the operation support flag is stored in the various flag storage area 614a of the RAM 614. If a negative determination is made in step S412, the operation determination process is immediately terminated.

If the determination in step S413 is positive, the operation support flag is cleared in step S414, and the operation determination process is terminated by temporarily relaxing the conditions for switching to the operation support mode in the following step S415. In other words, the operation support function is disabled when the pressed state of the operation button 40 is released.

In a configuration in which operation support is canceled when the signal from the operation button 40 falls from the HI level to the LOW level, the signal may temporarily fall to the LOW level due to the influence of noise, for example, or the signal may unintentionally fall to the LOW level. Even if a hand is removed from the operation button 40, operation support is canceled. In this regard, after the operation support is canceled, the conditions for returning to the operation support mode are set for a certain period (in this embodiment, the same length period as the transition determination period to the operation support mode described above: 2 seconds). The structure is such that the following benefits are relaxed (preferential treatment). Specifically, the determination value (predetermined value) of the mode switching counter shown in step S408 is lowered to a value corresponding to 0.2 sec. As a result, the condition for returning to the operation support mode is set on the condition that the pressing operation is continued for 0.2 seconds (the same length period as the above-mentioned interval period).

The specific configuration for determining whether to transition to or return from the operation support mode is arbitrary. For example, when the operation support mode is released, the operation support mode may be returned to when the number of consecutive detections of the HIGH level signal reaches a second predetermined number (e.g., two times) until the LOW level signal is detected consecutively a first predetermined number (e.g., eight times) after the operation support mode is released. In addition, the return conditions do not necessarily have to be the same each time, and it is also possible to change the return conditions depending on the situation. For example, the return conditions may be relaxed as the period during which the operation support mode is continued becomes longer.

Since this operation support function is installed, the operation modes in the first performance can be diverse. That is, there are cases where the operation support function is used to perform automatic repeated taps (when the operation button 40 is pressed and held), cases where the operation button 40 is repeatedly tapped by the player without using the operation support function (when the operation button 40 is repeatedly tapped manually), and cases where the operation button 40 is operated one-off.

In this embodiment, when the first and second performances are consecutive, the operation mode in the second performance (the operation mode that triggers the execution of the operation-responsive performance) is determined according to the operation mode during the first performance. In other words, when an operation-responsive consecutive performance in which the first and second performances are consecutive is selected at the start of a game round, the operation mode in the second performance is undetermined at that point, and the operation mode is determined during the first performance. Here, the first performance process executed by the MPU 612 of the notification/performance control device 142 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 16. The first performance process is a process that is performed as part of the variable display process (step S305) in the variable display control process (see FIG. 14(a)).

(First performance process)
In the first performance process, first, in step S501, it is determined whether or not the game is related to the operation-responsive continuous performance. If the determination in step S501 is negative, the first performance process is terminated. Note that, if the first performance is executed alone, not as part of the operation-responsive continuous performance, the determination in the process of step S501 determines whether or not the game is related to the first performance (alone).

If an affirmative determination is made in step S501, the process advances to step S502. In step S502, it is determined whether or not it is currently a period for accepting operations in the first performance (hereinafter referred to as first operations). If a negative determination is made in step S502, the process advances to step S503. In step S503, it is determined whether it is the timing to start accepting the first operation. If a negative determination is made in step S503, the first effect processing is directly ended. If an affirmative determination is made in step S503, the process advances to step S504.

In step S504, a process for starting acceptance of the first operation is executed. Specifically, a first operation acceptance flag is stored in the various flag storage area 614a of the RAM 614, and a predetermined value is set in the first operation acceptance period counter in the various counter area 614b. The first operation acceptance period counter is updated (decremented) each time the variable display control process is executed, and when the value of the first operation acceptance period counter returns to its initial value, the first operation acceptance flag is erased.

After executing the start process of step S504, the first operation suggestion start process is executed in the following step S505, and this first performance process is terminated. In the first operation suggestion start process, a first operation suggestion start command is output to the display control device 620. As a result, the above-mentioned button icon is displayed on the display screen 94a of the pattern display device 94.

Returning to the explanation of step S502, if a positive determination is made in step S502, i.e., if it is determined that the period for accepting the first operation is in progress, the process proceeds to step S506. In step S506, it is determined whether or not the first operation has been performed. Specifically, it is determined whether or not an operation detection flag is stored in the various flags storage area 614a of the RAM 614. If a negative determination is made in step S506, the first performance process is terminated. If a positive determination is made in step S560, the process proceeds to step S507.

In step S507, an operation acceptance notification process is executed. In the operation acceptance notification process, the speaker unit 27 is driven to output a sound effect indicating that the operation has been accepted, and an operation acceptance command is output to the display control device 620. The display control device 620 changes the display mode of the button icons displayed on the display screen 94a of the symbol display device 94 based on this operation acceptance command. Specifically, the button icon is temporarily recessed to resemble the movement of the actual operation button 40.

After executing the process in step S507, the process advances to step S508. In step S508, a first operation corresponding effect execution process is performed. In the first operation corresponding production execution process, it is determined how many times the current operation has been performed since the reception of the first operation started (the number of operations), and the number of operations determined is the effect generation or effect update. Determine if it is compatible.

As already explained, in the first performance, an effect is generated by the first operation, and the number of subsequent operations for updating the effect is determined. If the current operation is the first operation, the speaker unit 27 is driven to output a sound effect corresponding to the generation of the effect, and an effect generation command is output to the display control device 620. The display control device 620 displays an effect on the display screen 94a of the symbol display device 94 based on receiving this effect generation command. If the current operation corresponds to an effect update, the speaker unit 27 is driven to output a sound effect corresponding to the generation of the effect, and an effect update command is output to the display control device 620. The display control device 620 updates the effect displayed on the display screen 94a of the symbol display device 94 (changes the color) based on receiving this effect update command.

In the following step S509, it is determined whether or not the first operation acceptance period has elapsed by referring to the first operation acceptance period counter stored in the various counter areas 614b of the RAM 614. If a negative determination is made in step S509, the process for the first effect is immediately ended. If an affirmative determination is made in step S509, the process proceeds to step S510 on the condition that the first performance processing does not constitute a part of the operation-compatible continuous performance, and the first performance processing is The process proceeds to step S511 on the condition that it forms part of the corresponding continuous performance.

In step S510, a first operation suggestion end process is executed. Specifically, a first operation suggestion end command is output to the display control device 620. As a result, the button icon displayed on the display screen 94a of the pattern display device 94 is hidden. After executing the process of step S510, the process proceeds to step S511. On the other hand, if the first performance is to continue from the second performance, the process of step S510 is avoided and the operation suggestion continues.

In step S511, a first operation reception termination process is executed. Specifically, the first operation reception flag stored in the various flag storage area 614a of the RAM 614 is deleted. It also sends a reception end command to the display control device 620. The display control device 620 updates the display content on the display screen 94a upon receiving this reception end command. If an effect is displayed in this first performance, this effect is temporarily flashed. On the other hand, if the effect is not displayed in the current first performance, the effect remains hidden.

After executing the process of step S511, the process proceeds to step S512 on the condition that the first effect is shifted from the second effect. In step S512, a process for understanding the operation mode performed during the first performance is executed. In the present embodiment, the manner in which the operation button 40 is operated from the start of acceptance of the first operation to the end of the acceptance (during the acceptance period) is monitored. Specifically, first, it is confirmed whether or not the operation support flag has been stored during the reception period, and if the operation support flag has been stored, a "long press" is performed on the operation button 40. judge it as something. If the operation support flag is not stored, it is confirmed whether or not the number of operations of the operation button 40 during the acceptance period was a predetermined number of times (two times in this embodiment) or more, and the operation is performed for a predetermined number of times or more. If this is the case, it is determined that the operation button 40 was repeatedly hit by itself. In addition, if the operation support flag is not stored, it is checked whether the operation button 40 was operated once during the acceptance period, and if there is a fact that the operation was performed once, It is determined that a "single operation" was performed on the operation button 40.

After executing the grasping process in step S512, the second performance setting process is executed in step S513, and then the first performance process is terminated. Note that if the first performance is not part of a continuous operation-responsive performance and is executed independently, the processes in steps S512 and S513 are omitted.

As already explained, when an operation-responsive continuous performance is executed, the type of operation (second operation) that triggers the execution of an operation-responsive display (cut-in performance) in the second performance is determined according to the operation type (type of first operation) of the operation button 40 in the first performance. In the setting process for the second performance in step S513, the second operation is determined according to the type of the first operation grasped in step S512. Here, an overview of the second performance will be explained with reference to the schematic diagram in FIG. 17(a).

(Second performance)
In the second performance, when the player operates the operation button 40 during the reach display, a cut-in display (hereinafter referred to as (also simply called a cut-in) occurs. Specifically, a message indicating the degree of expectation of a jackpot result will be displayed. This cut-in corresponds to a "second operation corresponding display" or "second operation corresponding presentation."

The messages that are displayed in the cut-in are roughly divided into three types: "CHANCE", "BIG CHANCE" and "Super Hot".
A difference is provided in the order of "BIG CHANCE"<"SuperHot" so that the expectation of a jackpot result is higher. Specifically, when the first performance is executed in a game round that results in a jackpot result, the selection rates are more likely to be "CHANCE"<"BIGCHANCE"<"SuperHot", and when the first performance is executed in a game round that results in a loss result, the selection rates are more likely to be "Super Hot"<"BIGCHANCE"<"CHANCE".

For the above-mentioned first effect, the operation mode when generating the effect change as the first operation-compatible display (first operation-compatible effect) was unified to be continuous operation (automatic repeated taps by long pressing or manual repeated taps by the user), but for the second effect, second effects A to C are provided so that the process (suggested operation mode) leading up to the occurrence of the cut-in is different.

In the second effect A, "long press" is set as the second operation related to the second effect A. When the second effect A starts, the same button icon as that displayed in the first effect is displayed, and a charge gauge CG is displayed alongside the button icon. Regarding the charge gauge CG, the display mode changes when the operation button 40 is pressed for a long time (specifically, the colored portion of the operation gauge increases from left to right depending on the duration of the operation). The operation condition is met when either the operation acceptance period has passed or the charge gauge CG is full, and the above cut is made depending on the operation situation (how much the charge gauge CG is full). In occurs.

The cut-in selection differs between when the charge gauge CG is operated until it is full and when the operation acceptance period has elapsed before it is full. Specifically, in the latter case, the cut-in that occurs may be downgraded, and compared to the former, the cut-in selected is more likely to be a lower-level one in the latter case. In other words, even if "BIG CHANCE" would normally be displayed as the cut-in, it may be downgraded to the lower-level "CHANCE" that is displayed. Note that in the second performance A, a minimum operation period (e.g. 2 sec) is set for causing a cut-in, and if the operation period does not meet this minimum operation period, the occurrence of the cut-in will be canceled.

In the second performance B, "consecutive hits" is set as the second operation related to the second performance B. When the second performance B starts, the same button icon as that displayed in the first performance is displayed, and a charge gauge CG is displayed alongside the button icon. Regarding this charge gauge CG, the display mode changes when the operation button 40 is operated (hit repeatedly) (specifically, the colored part on the operation gauge increases from left to right according to the number of accepted operations) . When either the operation acceptance period elapses or the charge gauge CG becomes full, the operation condition is met, and the above cut-in occurs depending on the operation situation (how much the charge gauge CG is full). occurs.

The cut-in selection differs between when the charge gauge CG is operated until it is full and when the operation acceptance period has elapsed before it is full. Specifically, in the latter case, the cut-in that occurs may be downgraded, and compared to the former, the cut-in selected is more likely to be a lower-level one. In other words, even if "BIG CHANCE" would normally be displayed as the cut-in, it may be downgraded to the lower-level "CHANCE" that is displayed. Note that in second performance B, a minimum number of operations (for example, 10) is set for causing a cut-in, and if the number of operations does not reach this minimum number, the cut-in will be canceled.

In the second performance C, a "single operation" is set as the second operation related to the second performance C. When the second performance C starts, an icon that is the same as the button icon displayed in the first performance is displayed, and an impact gauge IG and a pointer P are displayed alongside the button icon. The pointer P moves back and forth from side to side along the impact gauge IG, and the pointer P stops when the operation button 40 is operated. When a single operation that triggers the stopping of the pointer P is performed, the operation condition is established, and the above-mentioned cut-in occurs depending on the status of that operation (the stopping position of the pointer P).

The impact gauge IG is configured such that a difference in merit may occur depending on the position where the pointer P stops. Specifically, an impact area IE is set in a predetermined range in the center of the impact gauge IG in the left-right direction, and an impact point IP is set in the center of the impact area IE. When the pointer P stops outside the impact area IE (when a single operation is performed at the timing when the pointer P stops outside the impact area IE), "NORMAL!" is displayed as a message corresponding to the impact area IE being missed. On the other hand, when the pointer P stops within the impact area IE (when a single operation is performed at the timing when the pointer P stops within the impact area IE), "GREAT!" is displayed as a message corresponding to the impact area IE being captured, and particularly when the pointer P stops at the impact point IP (when a single operation is performed at the timing when the pointer P stops at the impact point IP), "JUST IMPACT!" is displayed as a message corresponding to the impact point IP being captured.

The cut-in selection mode differs depending on the stop position of the pointer P, that is, the operation timing of the operation button 40. Specifically, when the impact area IE is removed, the selected cut-in is more likely to be a lower one than when the impact area IE is captured. In other words, even if "BIG CHANCE" would normally be displayed as a cut-in, it may be demoted so that "CHANCE", which is lower than it, is displayed. Note that if no operation is performed during the operation acceptance period in the second performance C, the occurrence of the cut-in will be canceled.

Incidentally, in order to encourage players' understanding, when the second effect A and the second effect B are executed, a message indicating that the charge gauge CG can be accumulated by operating the operation button 40 (for example, ``If you press the button repeatedly, ”) may be displayed, or the operation button 40 may be operated at the timing when the pointer P reaches a predetermined location (impact point IP) on the impact gauge IG when the second effect C is executed. A message (for example, "Press the button and aim at the center of the gauge") may be displayed to encourage timing.

As already explained, when transitioning from the first performance to the second performance, it is determined which of the second performances A to C will be executed depending on the operation mode of the operation button 40 in the first performance. It has a fixed configuration. Here, with reference to FIG. 17(b), a supplementary explanation will be given of the second effect setting process shown in step S513.

(Second production setting process)
In the second effect setting process, first, in step S601, it is determined whether or not the mode of operation (first operation) of the operation button 40 in the first effect is a long press. When an affirmative determination is made in step S601, the process advances to step S602, and second effect A is set as the second effect. That is, if automatic repeated hits by "long press" of the operation button 40 are executed in the first performance, "long press", which is a similar operation mode, will be set in the second performance.

If a negative judgment is made in step S601, the process proceeds to step S603. In step S603, it is judged whether the manner of operation of the operation button 40 in the first performance (first operation) was manual repeated tapping. If a positive judgment is made in step S603, the process proceeds to step S604, and second performance B is set as the second performance. In other words, if "repeated taps" of the operation button 40 are executed in the first performance, a similar operation manner of "repeated taps" is set in the second performance. In this embodiment, as described above, an operation support function is provided, and if a player who is tired of repeated taps presses the operation button 40 for a long time in the second performance, the automatic repeated taps will effectively treat it as if the player had repeatedly tapped manually.

In this embodiment, if both "long press" and "repeated taps" are performed in the first performance, the former is given priority. However, the priority order is not limited to this, and it is also possible to configure the final operation to be given priority. For example, if the operations are performed in the order of "repeated taps" → "long press", the first operation = "repeated taps", and if the operations are performed in the order of "long press" → "repeated taps", the first operation = "long press" to determine the operation mode for the second performance.

If a negative determination is made in step S603, that is, if the operation button 40 is operated only once in the first performance (a "single operation") or if the operation button 40 is not operated. In step S605, the second effect C is set as the second effect. That is, for example, if a "single operation" is performed in the first performance, a "single operation" which is a similar operation mode will be set in the second performance.

In the setting processes of steps S602, S604, and S605, information indicating which of second performances A to C will be executed as the second performance is transmitted to the display control device 620 by a second performance type command.

Next, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 18, the second effect processing executed by the MPU 612 of the notification/effect control device 142 will be described. The second effect process is a process performed as part of the process during fluctuation (step S305) in the above-described fluctuation display control process (see FIG. 14(a)).

(Second production process)
In the process for the second effect, first, in step S701, it is determined whether or not it is a game round related to the second effect. If a negative determination is made in step S701, the second effect processing is immediately terminated. If an affirmative determination is made in step S701, the process advances to step S702. In step S702, it is determined whether or not the current period is for accepting operations (second operations) in the second performance. If a negative determination is made in step S702, the process advances to step S703. In step S703, it is determined whether it is the timing to start accepting the second operation. If a negative determination is made in step S703, the second effect processing is directly ended. If an affirmative determination is made in step S703, the process advances to step S704.

In step S704, a second operation reception start process is executed. Specifically, the second operation acceptance flag is stored in the various flag storage area 614a of the RAM 614, and a predetermined value is set in the counter for the second operation acceptance period in the various counter area 614b. The counter for the second operation acceptance period is updated (subtracted) every time the above fluctuation display control process is executed, and the second operation acceptance flag is cleared when the value of the counter for the second operation acceptance period returns to the initial value. be done.

After executing the start process in step S704, a second operation suggestion start process is executed in the subsequent step S705, and the second effect process ends. In the second operation suggestion start process, a second operation suggestion start command is output to the display control device 620. As a result, the above-described button icons and the like are displayed on the display screen 94a of the symbol display device 94. More specifically, if the current second performance corresponds to second performance A or second performance B, a button icon and charge gauge CG are displayed, and the current second performance corresponds to second performance C. If compatible, a button icon, impact gauge IG, and pointer P are displayed.

Returning to the explanation of step S702, if a positive determination is made in step S702, i.e., if it is determined that the second operation is being accepted, the process proceeds to step S706. In step S706, a process of updating the gauges, etc. is performed. Specifically, if second performance A or second performance B is being performed, a process of causing a visual change is performed, such as by increasing or decreasing the light emission level of the charge gauge CG. If second performance C is being performed, a process of changing the position of the pointer P is performed.

In the next step S707, it is determined whether or not a second operation has been performed. Incidentally, the determination of the second operation differs depending on which of second performance A to second performance C is being executed. Specifically, when second performance A is being executed, the operation determination is made based on whether or not an operation support flag is stored in the various flag storage area 614a of RAM 614. In other words, if an operation support flag is stored, it is determined that a "long press" has been performed. When second performance B or second performance C is being executed, it is determined whether or not an operation detection flag is stored in the various flag storage area 614a of RAM 614. In other words, if an operation detection flag is stored, it is determined that an operation has been performed.

If an affirmative determination is made in step S707, the process advances to step S708. In step S708, an operation acceptance notification process is executed. In the operation acceptance notification process, the speaker unit 27 is driven to output a sound effect indicating that the operation has been accepted, and an operation acceptance command is output to the display control device 620. The display control device 620 changes the display mode of the button icons displayed on the display screen 94a of the symbol display device 94 based on this operation acceptance command. Specifically, the button icon is recessed to resemble the movement of the actual operation button 40.

After executing the process in step S708, the process advances to step S709. In step S709, it is determined whether the execution condition for the second operation corresponding effect is satisfied. Specifically, when the second effect A is being executed, it is determined whether the period during which the long press was executed (the period during which the operation support flag is stored) has reached a preset period. . When the second effect B is being executed, it is determined whether the number of operations of the operation button 40 has reached a preset number of times. When the second performance C is being executed, it is determined whether or not the operation button 40 has been operated.

When an affirmative determination is made in step S709, the process advances to step S710, and a process for executing the second operation corresponding effect is performed. Specifically, the speaker unit 27 is driven to output a sound effect corresponding to the occurrence of a cut-in, and a cut-in generation command is output to the display control device 620. The display control device 620 causes the cut-in to be displayed on the display screen 94a of the symbol display device 94 based on the reception of this cut-in generation command. This cut-in generation command includes information regarding the type of cut-in to be generated.

In step S711, a second operation reception termination process is executed. Specifically, the second operation reception flag stored in the various flag storage area 614a of the RAM 614 is deleted. Then, in the following step S712, a second operation suggestion termination process is executed. Specifically, a second operation suggestion end command is output to the display control device 620. As a result, the button icons, gauges, etc. that were displayed on the display screen 94a of the symbol display device 94 are hidden.

If a negative judgment is made in step S707 or step S709, that is, if it is judged that the second operation has not been performed or if it is judged that the execution conditions for the second operation-responsive performance have not been met, the process proceeds to step S713. In step S713, the second operation acceptance period counter stored in the various counter area 614b of the RAM 614 is referenced to judge whether or not the second operation acceptance period has elapsed. If a negative judgment is made in step S713, the process for the second performance is terminated as is. If a positive judgment is made in step S713, the process proceeds to step S714 to judge whether or not the cancellation conditions for the second performance have been met. In other words, if the second performance A is being performed, the execution condition is not met because the period during which the "long press" was performed is below the minimum operation period (e.g., 2 sec), and if the second performance B is being performed, the execution condition is not met because the number of times that the "continuous press" was performed is below the minimum number of operations (e.g., 10 times), and if the second performance C is being performed, the execution condition is not met if a "single operation" is not performed.

When an affirmative determination is made in step S714, the process for the second effect is ended after each process in step S711 and step S712 is executed. As a result, cut-in display as the second operation-compatible presentation is avoided. On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S714, the second effect process is ended after each process in steps S710 to S712 is executed. Regarding the second operation-compatible performance that is executed on the condition that the operation acceptance period has elapsed, the probability that a cut-in with a lower expectation level will occur is higher than that of the second operation-compatible performance that is executed via step S709.

Here, with reference to the timing chart of FIG. 19, a description will be given of the flow of the game when the operation-compatible continuous performance (first performance→second performance) is executed. In FIG. 19, a case is illustrated in which the second performance A is executed as the second performance.

At the timing ta1, variable display of symbols starts on the display screen 94a of the symbol display device 94, and at the timing ta2, it shifts to the ready-to-reach display. When the first effect is started at timing ta3 after shifting to the ready-to-reach display, a button icon for operation suggestion is displayed in the center of the display screen 94a. When the operation button 40 is operated at timing ta4 after the operation suggestion is started, an effect that surrounds the variable display area of the symbol is generated on the display screen 94a. Since the effect color at the start of display is blue, there is room for it to change to a more expected (higher) color.

If the operation button 40 pressed at time ta4 is maintained in a pressed state, the mode switches to operation support mode at time ta5, enabling automatic repeated taps. If the pressed state is maintained thereafter, the operation button 40 is deemed to have been pressed repeatedly, and the color of the effect changes from blue to yellow to green to red according to the number of times it is pressed repeatedly. Since the color of the effect is red when the operation acceptance period ends, the red effect flashes as the operation acceptance period ends, and the first performance ends. As already explained, the effect displayed on the display screen 94a indicates the likelihood of a jackpot result in that game round, and by the color of the effect changing based on the operation, the expectation of a jackpot result is higher than when the effect was initially displayed.

The second performance starts immediately at the time ta6 when the first performance ends. In this embodiment, the second performance starts when the first performance ends, so there is no substantial time lag between the two performances. The button icons displayed on the display screen 94a continue to be displayed even after the transition to the second performance. However, at the time ta6 when the second performance starts, a charge gauge CG is displayed in addition to the button icons.

The automatic rapid-fire action that began in the first performance continues in the second performance, causing the display of the charge gauge CG to change. Then, at the timing ta7 when the charge gauge CG becomes full, the word "CHANCE" is displayed in a cut-in on the display screen 94a as a message indicating the likelihood of a jackpot result in that play round.

The example game round shown in Figure 19 corresponds to a losing result. Therefore, at the timing ta8 when the game round ends, the symbol combination corresponding to the losing result is displayed in a stopped state, and the game result is clearly shown.

The first embodiment described above provides the following excellent effects:

The operation mode that triggers the execution of the second operation response effect is determined according to the operation mode of the operation performed during the first effect that triggers the execution of the first operation response effect. It is possible to provide a correlation between the operation modes when performing the first operation response effect → second operation response effect, and it is possible to enhance the sense of unity by using both effects together.

The use of the first and second effects in combination is advantageous in preventing the game from becoming monotonous and increasing attention to the game. However, considering that both the first and second effects are effects associated with the operation of the operation button 40, there is a concern that if the operation that triggers the execution of the effect becomes complicated, for example, beginners who are unfamiliar with the game will not be able to participate in the game properly, making it difficult to achieve the above-mentioned effect of increasing attention. In this regard, by unifying the operation mode for the first and second effects as shown in this embodiment, the occurrence of various inconveniences can be suitably suppressed.

In a configuration in which the first and second effects are consecutive, for example, an event may occur in which the second effect begins before (while) the operation that was started in conjunction with the first effect is completed. For example, when transitioning to the second effect, the operation may be repeated with the momentum/rhythm of the first effect. This raises the concern that the actual operation mode may differ from the set operation mode, and the player's intention in operation may not be properly reflected in the effect. In this regard, by configuring the gaming machine to determine (adjust) the subsequent operation mode according to the player's operation mode in the first effect, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of the above inconveniences and realize a practically preferable configuration.

In the operation-compatible continuous performance that transitions from the first performance to the second performance, after starting to display a button icon that suggests the operation of the operation button 40 in the first performance, the button icon is displayed again in the second performance. It continues to be displayed until the two-operation compatible effect (cut-in display) is executed. As long as the operation is continued in response to this operation suggestion, it will match the mode set as the execution trigger of the second operation corresponding performance. In this way, while attempting to diversify the performance patterns, it is possible to prevent the operation mode itself from changing in a complicated manner, thereby making it possible to proceed with the first performance and the second performance smoothly.

In a configuration in which an operation is suggested by a button icon or the like, if the user visually checks the button icon and then actually performs an operation in response to the button icon, a certain amount of time lag may occur between the suggestion and the operation. In contrast, if the operation suggestion is started in advance, the effect of the time lag described above can be mitigated and the performance can proceed smoothly. In this embodiment, the button icon is already displayed before the second performance begins. Therefore, the player can be informed that he or she is in a situation where an operation should be performed before the second performance begins and the operation acceptance begins. This reduces the period from the start of the operation acceptance to the actual operation (the above-mentioned time lag), and there is no need to set the second performance taking such a period into account. Improving responsiveness in this way is a preferable configuration for realizing an improvement in the degree of freedom of the execution period and progress of the second performance.

The button icons displayed in the first performance and the button icons displayed in the second performance are common. This is advantageous in promoting understanding that the operation mode that triggers the execution of the operation-corresponding performance is common. To begin with, in the first performance, a certain degree of freedom is set in the operation mode. Specifically, three modes are allowed: "long press", "repeated press", and "single operation". Therefore, the button icons displayed in the first effect are not provided with information that allows identification of specific operation modes. On the other hand, in the second performance, an operation mode that triggers the execution of the second operation corresponding performance is defined. Therefore, if a similar button icon is displayed in the second performance, it may be difficult to understand the relationship between the actual operation mode and the specified operation mode with only that much information. In this regard, in the present embodiment, as described above, the mode of operation that triggers the execution of the second operation-compatible performance is defined in accordance with the mode of operation that triggered the execution of the first operation-compatible performance. Therefore, even if information to clearly indicate the operation mode is not attached to the operation suggestion icon, it is understood from the history of the first performance that the operations in the second performance are the same as in the first performance. This makes it easier. In other words, even if the icons are displayed simply, it can be prevented from becoming a factor that confuses the player.

The second performance is provided with a second performance C corresponding to the "single operation". In the second performance C, the type of cut-in display as the second operation corresponding performance may change depending on the timing when the player operates the operation button 40. Here, if the operation is performed continuously during the first performance, the hand will not necessarily be removed from the operating means when the first performance ends. For example, the operation may be continued intentionally in the expectation that some kind of step-up will occur in response to continuous operation, or the operation may be continued due to inertia. When the second effect is started in a situation where continuous operations are continued in this way, the second operation corresponding effect can be executed using the above-described operation as a trigger. More specifically, an operation may be accepted at a timing not intended by the player, and the second operation-corresponding performance may be executed in a manner inconsistent with the player's original intention. This is harsh for the player who is actively operating the operating means. Therefore, if the operation of the operating means during the first performance is performed continuously, the "single operation" is removed from the mode of operation that triggers the second operation corresponding performance, so that the dependence on the above timing is eliminated. By avoiding this, the occurrence of the above-mentioned inconvenience can be suitably suppressed.

In particular, if one considers that the first and second performances are consecutive and that there is no substantial interval between them, there is a high possibility that the operation that began in the first performance will continue into the second performance. Taking this into consideration, the effect of defining the operation mode that triggers the execution of the second operation-responsive performance as described above becomes significant.

In a gaming machine of the type in which an operation-responsive presentation is executed according to the number of times the operation button 40 is pressed (number of times it is repeatedly pressed), a preferable configuration can be realized in terms of ensuring variety in operations and preventing monotony in the game by combining it with a configuration in which the operation means needs to be operated only once. However, increasing the operational burden on the player when performing repeated pressing operations can be a factor in making the player tired of operating the operation means. In this regard, if a configuration is adopted in which the same effect as when the operation button 40 is repeatedly pressed (support effect due to automatic repeated pressing) can be obtained by maintaining the operation button 40 in a pressed state as shown in this embodiment, the occurrence of the above-mentioned inconvenience can be suitably suppressed.

However, although such an automatic repeating function is advantageous in improving the convenience of operation, it cannot be denied that the function may be abused as the operational burden is reduced. For example, an event may occur in which a game is played with the hand placed on the operating means, regardless of the presence or absence of an operation suggestion. In this case, it cannot be denied that the second operation corresponding performance in the second performance C may be executed at a timing that does not match the player's intention as a result of the automatic consecutive hits. In particular, in view of the fact that the first performance is the trigger for starting the operation, the above-mentioned inconvenience is more likely to occur when transitioning from the first performance to the second performance. In this regard, as mentioned above, the mode of operation that triggers the execution of the second operation corresponding effect is defined according to the mode of operation in the first effect, and when a "long press" is performed, the second effect C is selected as a candidate. By configuring it to be removed from the screen, it is possible to suitably suppress the occurrence of inconveniences such as the second performance not being executed properly due to improved convenience.

<Modification 1>
Regarding the second effect (second operation corresponding effect: cut-in display), it is sufficient that it is executed after the first effect (first operation corresponding effect: effect change) starts, and it does not necessarily have to be executed after the first effect ends. There is no need for the configuration to be executed in succession to the first performance. For example, it may be configured such that there is a blank space between the first performance and the second performance, or the second performance may overlap or intersect with a part of the first performance during the execution period of the first performance. It is also possible to have a configuration in which this is executed.

<Modification 2>
In the first embodiment, when the second performance is executed following the first performance, the operation mode for the second performance is determined at the start of the second performance, but the timing of determining the operation mode for the second performance is not limited to this. For example, it is also possible to determine the operation mode for the second performance while the first performance is being executed. In addition, the operation mode for the second performance may be provisionally set at the start of a game round, etc., and the operation mode for the second performance may be rewritten according to the operation mode of the player at the time of the first performance.

<Modification 3>
In the first embodiment, the button icon as the operation suggestion image suggesting the operation of the operation button 40 is continuously displayed from the first performance to the second performance, but the present invention is not limited to this. It is also possible to hide the button icon at the connecting portion between the two performances. Specifically, the button icon may be hidden with the end of the operation acceptance period in the first performance, and redisplayed with the start of the operation acceptance period in the second performance.

Further, there is no need to make the button icons displayed during the first performance and the button icons displayed during the second performance common. That is, it is sufficient that each presentation can indicate that the operation button 40 is in a state to be operated, and the button icon for the first presentation and the button icon for the second presentation are differentiated. This is not to deny it. For example, it is possible to make the size, color, shape, etc. of the button icon different for each presentation.

<Modification 4>
In the first embodiment, the operation suggestion start timing and the operation acceptance start timing are aligned, but it is also possible to shift these two timings. For example, the operation suggestion may be started, and then the operation acceptance may be started after the operation suggestion. In making such a change, when a continuous operation such as "long press" or "rapid tapping" is performed in the first performance, a notification to encourage the continuation of the operation (specifically, "Continue rapid tapping to fill the gauge 3, 2, 1, start", "Continue long press to fill the gauge 3, 2, 1, start", etc.) may be performed at the beginning of the second performance. In addition, when a "single operation" is performed in the first performance, a notification to encourage the operation (specifically, "Aim for the impact point 3, 2, 1, start", etc.) may be performed at the beginning of the second performance.

<Modification 5>
When transitioning from the first performance to the second performance, it is also possible to configure the game so that an operation corresponding to the second performance is prompted before the start of operation acceptance in the second performance (configuration to perform advance notification). For example, a configuration may be adopted in which a notification is performed before the end of the first performance (during the first performance) to prompt an operation corresponding to the second performance (specifically, "Continue tapping to fill the gauge 3.2.1. Start", "Continue holding the button to fill the gauge 3.2.1. Start", etc.).

<Modification 6>
In the first embodiment, when auto-tap is executed during the first performance, the operation in the second performance is assisted by auto-tap, but this is not limited to the above. It is also possible to configure the operation in the second performance not to assist by auto-tap (for example, to avoid it) when auto-tap is executed during the first performance.

<Modification 7>
As shown in the above embodiment, when the automatic rapid-fire function is provided, it is preferable to configure the display screen 94a of the symbol display device 94 to inform the player that the automatic rapid-fire function is enabled. Also, when the automatic rapid-fire function is actually being performed, it is preferable to configure the display screen 94a of the symbol display device 94 to clearly indicate that the automatic rapid-fire function is in operation.

<Second embodiment>
In the first embodiment described above, the first performance and the second performance were executed consecutively without any interruption, but in this embodiment, the difference between the first performance and the second performance is By allowing an interval period to occur, the degree of freedom in inserting effects, etc. is improved. In such a configuration, there is a concern that individual operation suggestions may easily give the impression to the player that the operations are cumbersome, making it difficult for the player to concentrate on the game. One of the features of this embodiment is that it has been devised in consideration of such circumstances. Hereinafter, with reference to the schematic diagram of FIG. 20, the configurations related to the first effect and the second effect will be described, focusing on the differences from the first embodiment.

In this embodiment, both the first and second effects may be executed during one game round. Here, by providing multiple start timings for the second effect, monotony in game progress is suppressed. Specifically, the second effects are broadly divided into those that start at tb3, a relatively short interval (2 sec in this embodiment) from the end of the first effect at tb2 (hereinafter referred to as the first type second effect), and those that start at tb4, which is later than the first type second effect (hereinafter referred to as the second type second effect). The first type second effect and the second type second effect have the same basic flow and execution period, suppressing an increase in data volume due to the diversification of effects.

Here, since the first and second performances are separated, the operation suggestion in the first performance mainly ends when the operation acceptance period in the first performance has elapsed, and the operation suggestion in the second performance starts when the second performance starts and ends when the operation acceptance period in the second performance has elapsed. However, in a certain specific situation, the suggestion in the first performance is extended until the second performance starts (more specifically, until the operation suggestion starts in the second performance). Specifically, in the MPU 612 of the notification/performance control device 142, the start timing and end timing of the suggestion are set at the start of the first performance, but when the above specific situation occurs, the end timing of the suggestion is rewritten. Here, referring to FIG. 21(a), the process for updating the suggestion end timing (setting content update process) executed by the MPU 612 of the notification/performance control device 142 will be described. The setting content update process is a process executed as part of the above-mentioned variable display control process (variable process), which is a periodic process.

(Settings update process)
In the setting content update process, first, in step S801, it is determined whether or not it is time to make an update determination. The first performance described in the first embodiment is configured to have a constant execution period regardless of the operation mode of the player. The details will be described later, but the first performance shown in this embodiment is configured so that the execution period of the first performance can change depending on the operation mode. Regarding the timing of the update determination, it is determined whether or not approximately half of the execution period (shortest period) of the first performance has elapsed since the first performance started (see the schematic diagram of FIG. 21(b)). In this embodiment, the operation support function is also enabled by pressing and holding the operation button 40, but the period from the start timing of the first performance (more specifically, the start of operation acceptance) to the timing of the update determination is set to be longer than the long press period required for transition to the operation support mode. If a negative determination is made in step S801, the update process is terminated as it is, and if a positive determination is made in step S801, the process proceeds to step S802.

In step S802, it is determined whether the interval period between the first and second performances is within a predetermined range. Specifically, if a first type second performance with a relatively short interval period is executed as the second performance, a positive determination is made in step S802, and if a second type second performance with a relatively long interval period is executed as the second performance, a negative determination is made in step S802. If a negative determination is made in step S802, the update process ends as is, and if a positive determination is made in step S802, the process proceeds to step S803.

Regarding the first effect, as in the first embodiment, any of "long press", "repeated press", and "single press" are allowed as the operation mode of the operation button 40. However, in the first embodiment, based on the operation mode of the operation button 40 in the first performance, the mode of the second operation (second performance A to However, in this embodiment, the mode of the second operation that triggers the execution of the second operation corresponding performance in the second performance is determined at the start of the game round. They are different in that they are different.

In step S803, it is determined whether the operation mode of the operation button 40 in the first performance matches the operation mode related to the second performance. More specifically, if a "long press" is performed in the first performance, it is determined whether a "long press" is set in the second performance (whether second performance A is selected), and if a "repeated hit" is performed in the first performance, it is determined whether a "repeated hit" is set in the second performance (whether second performance B is selected). If a negative determination is made in step S803, this update process is terminated as is, and if a positive determination is made in step S801, it proceeds to step S804.

In step S804, a process for continuing to display the button icon as an operation suggestion image is executed. In this case, the button icon displayed on the display screen 94a with the start of the first performance is not hidden based on the end of the operation acceptance period, but continues to be displayed during the interval period between the first and second performances. In other words, the display of the button icon is extended until the start of the second performance, and the button icon continues to be displayed from the first to the second performance (see FIG. 21(b)).

Here, we will provide additional explanation on the flow of the first performance. In the first performance, the color of the effect on the display screen 94a changes as the operation button 40 is operated. In the first embodiment, the operation acceptance period and the execution period of the first performance were specified regardless of the number of times the operation button 40 was operated. In contrast, in the first performance shown in this embodiment, the operation acceptance period and the number of times that the operation is accepted are specified when the first performance is executed, and the first performance ends when the number of times that the operation is accepted reaches the specified number before the operation acceptance period has elapsed. For this reason, the execution period of the first performance depends on the operation of the player.

As shown in the schematic diagram of FIG. 22(a), if the operation button 40 is pressed and held in accordance with the operation suggestion after the first performance has started, automatic repeated taps are executed, and the number of operation acceptances can reach a specified number within the operation acceptance period. In other words, the effective period of the operation support is long enough to allow the specified number of times to be reached by automatic repeated taps. After the first performance has ended, the second performance will start after a specified interval period.

As illustrated in the schematic diagrams of FIGS. 22(b) and 22(c), it is uncertain what kind of operation will be performed in the first performance, such as manually hitting the operation button 40 repeatedly, By performing both manual and automatic consecutive hits, the time required to reach the prescribed number of times will vary. Regarding the second performance executed after the first performance, the timing of its start will change depending on the progress of the first performance. Incidentally, it is also possible to have a configuration in which the start timing of the second performance is not affected by the progress status of the first performance, and to determine the start timing in advance, such as at the start of a game round.

Here, the update determination count is set to a count slightly less than the specified count. When the number of operations reaches the update determination count, the update determination condition of step S801 above is met. At this point, the processes of steps S802 to S804 are executed.

When transitioning from the first performance to the second performance, the display of the button icon may be continued if various conditions related to continuation are satisfied. In such cases, the operational support period will be automatically extended. This makes it possible to prevent the operation support function from being disabled midway when the operation is continued in response to the operation suggestion. Whether or not the validity period can be extended is determined by the operation determination process executed by the MPU 612 of the notification/performance control device 142. The operation determination process in this embodiment will be described below with reference to the flowchart in FIG. 23.

(Operation determination process)
In the operation determination process, first, in step S901, it is determined whether or not an operation detection flag is stored in the various flag storage area 614a of the RAM 614. If an affirmative determination is made in step S901, the operation detection flag is deleted. The operation detection flag is a flag that is stored in the various flag storage area 614a when it is determined that an operation has been performed. Understand the operation status based on presence/absence.

After executing the process of step S902, or if a negative judgment is made in step S901, the process proceeds to step S903. In step S903, it is judged whether or not a HI level signal has been received from the operation button 40 (more specifically, an attached detection sensor). In this embodiment, too, when the operation button 40 is in the standby position (non-operation position), a LOW level signal is input to the notification/performance control device 142, and when the operation button 40 is pressed into the operation position, a HI level signal is input to the notification/performance control device 142. In step S903, the presence or absence of operation is determined based on the detection information (signal) from the operation button 40. Note that it is also possible to reverse the relationship of the binary signals, so that when the operation button 40 is operated, a LOW level signal is input, and when it is not operated, a HI level signal is input.

If a positive determination is made in step S903, the process proceeds to step S904. In step S904, it is determined whether or not an operation support flag is stored in the various flag storage area 614a of the RAM 614. If a negative determination is made in step S904, the process proceeds to step S905. In step S905, it is determined whether or not the value of the mode switching counter provided in the various counter area 614b of the RAM 614 is "0". If a positive determination is made in step S905, the process proceeds to step S906, where an update process for the mode switching counter is performed. Specifically, the mode switching counter is incremented by "1".

After executing the process of step S906, the operation response process is executed in step S907, and the operation determination process is terminated. In the operation response process, an operation detection flag is stored in the various flag storage area 614a of the RAM 614, and a light emission signal is output to temporarily illuminate the operation lamp unit built into the center frame 95.

Returning to the explanation of step S905, if a negative determination is made in step S905, the process advances to step S908. In step S908, it is determined whether the mode switching counter has reached a predetermined value. As already explained, the mode switching counter is configured to be updated when a HI level signal is received from the operation button 40. The predetermined value is defined so that the period during which the HI level signal is continuously received is a predetermined period (2 seconds in this embodiment). That is, when the period during which the HI level signal is continuously received (the period during which the operation button 40 is pressed) is 2 seconds, an affirmative determination is made in step S908.

If an affirmative determination is made in step S908, the process advances to step S909. In step S909, the operation support flag is stored in the various flag storage area 614a of the RAM 614. This shifts to operation support mode, and from then on the operation support function will be enabled. After executing the process in step S909, the valid period of the operation support mode is set in the subsequent step S910. Specifically, a predetermined value (for example, 4 seconds, which corresponds to a period shorter than the longest execution period of the first effect) is set in the validity period counter provided in the various counter areas 614b of the RAM 614. The valid period counter is updated (subtracted by 1) each time the operation determination process is executed, and operation support ends when it returns to the initial value "0". After executing the process in step S910, the operation corresponding process is executed in step S907, and the main operation determination process is ended.

On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S908, i.e., if it is determined that the mode switching counter has not yet reached the "predetermined value," the process proceeds to step S911. After performing an update process similar to that in step S906 in step S911, the operation determination process ends.

Returning to the explanation of step S904, if it is determined that the operation support flag is stored in the various flag storage area 614a of the RAM 614, i.e., if the operation support function is enabled, the process proceeds to step S912. In step S912, the value of the validity period counter is referenced to determine whether or not it is time for the validity period to end.

If a positive determination is made in step S912, the process proceeds to step S913. In step S913, it is determined whether or not the conditions for extending the valid period are met. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the situation is such that the operation suggestion will continue even after the first performance ends. If a negative determination is made in step S913, that is, if the operation suggestion will not continue, the operation support flag stored in the various flags storage area 614a of RAM 614 is erased. If a positive determination is made in step S913, the process proceeds to step S915.

In step S915, a process is executed to extend the effective period of the operation support mode. Specifically, an increment process is executed on the effective period counter so that the effective period continues until the end of the second performance. This allows the operation support function to continue uninterrupted until the end of the first performance.

After executing the processes in steps S915 and S914, or when a negative determination is made in step S912, the process advances to step S916. In step S916, it is determined whether or not a preset interval period (0.2 sec in this embodiment) has elapsed since the previous operation detection flag was stored. In the present embodiment, if it is confirmed that the operation button 40 has been pressed and held for 2 seconds, the long press continues, resulting in the same effect as when the operation button 40 is pressed repeatedly. It is possible to perform automatic repeated hits that cause events. The above-mentioned interval period is set as the operation interval when performing this automatic continuous hitting.

Returning to the explanation of step S903, if a negative determination is made in step S903, that is, if a LOW level signal is being received from the operation button 40, the process advances to step S917. In step S917, the mode switching counter is cleared to 0 (reset). In the following step S918, it is determined whether the operation support flag is stored in the various flag storage area 614a of the RAM 614. If a negative determination is made in step S412, the operation determination process is immediately terminated.

When an affirmative determination is made in step S918, the operation support flag is erased in step S919, and in the subsequent step S920, a temporary relaxation process of the mode switching condition is executed, and the main operation determination process is ended. In other words, the operation support function is disabled when the pressed state of the operation button 40 is released.

According to the second embodiment described in detail above, the following excellent effects are achieved.

When the first and second effects associated with the operation of the operation button 40 are performed as shown in the second embodiment, it is also possible to configure the game so that the player is prompted to perform the operation individually during each effect period. In such a configuration, the first and second operation-responsive effects can be generated by performing the operation individually according to information from the gaming machine, for example. However, repeatedly performing and stopping the operation can make the operation cumbersome, which can lead to a decrease in attention to the effects. In addition, if an instruction for the next operation is issued under a situation in which the player's attention is decreased after completing the operation, it is concerned that the instruction will be easily overlooked. In this way, when performing multiple operation-responsive effects, it cannot be denied that the interruption of the operation instruction may be an obstacle to increasing attention to the game. In this regard, if the display of the button icon for suggesting the operation is continued between the first and second effects as shown in this embodiment, the continuation of the operation across both effects can be configured to suppress the occurrence of the above-mentioned annoyance and oversight, and the effect of increasing attention by the operation-responsive effects can be preferably exerted.

If continuation of the operation is encouraged regardless of the period between the first performance and the second performance (interval period), there is a concern that the operation will be prolonged and the burden on the player will increase. An excessively large burden may lead to a decrease in the player's desire to play, and there is concern that this will hinder active participation. In this regard, as shown in the present embodiment, the guidance to continue the operation is limited to the case where the first performance → second performance is performed during one game round, and when the interval period becomes excessively long, By adopting a configuration that refrains from the above-mentioned guidance, the occurrence of the above-mentioned inconvenience can be suitably suppressed.

As described above, the problem of using multiple effects associated with the operation button 40 in combination is more pronounced when the time between each effect (non-execution period, interval period) is short. Therefore, when the non-execution period is the relatively long first period, the above-mentioned guidance is refrained from causing inconvenience. Furthermore, a configuration that prevents the operation from being unnecessarily prolonged and placing a heavy burden on the player is advantageous in that the above guidance encourages active participation (operation) by the player. In other words, the above-mentioned guidance to continue the operation is performed when a relatively short second period is set (when a second type second effect is executed) rather than when a relatively long first period is set as the interval period (when a first type second effect is executed), thereby making it possible to suitably suppress the occurrence of the above-mentioned inconvenience.

In order to induce the user to continue operating the operation button 40 in the first to second effects, giving the impression that the operation is essentially meaningless will reduce the desire to operate. In this case, the above-mentioned guidance function cannot be effectively performed. In the first performance, as a result of performing an operation in accordance with the operation suggestion by the button icon, the first operation corresponding performance is executed. In this way, by making the player aware that some kind of response will occur in response to the suggestion, and then performing the above guidance so that the suggestion continues, the player is given the impression that the ongoing operation has some meaning. It becomes possible to make the player aware of this. Thereby, the occurrence of the above-mentioned inconvenience can be suitably suppressed.

If the configuration is such that the above-mentioned guidance is performed when the mode of operation that triggers the first operation-compatible performance and the mode of operation that triggers the second operation-compatible performance match, it is possible to perform the operation across the two performances. Even if it continues, it is possible to suitably suppress the occurrence of inconveniences such as the performance not proceeding smoothly due to differences in operation modes, etc. Thereby, it is possible to smoothly proceed with the performance corresponding to the operation.

In particular, when performing a predetermined operation in succession, if the operation is interrupted and then restarted midway through, it is assumed that the player is likely to feel that the operation is troublesome. Therefore, if the first effect and the second effect correspond to continuous operation ("long press" or "continuous press"), a practically preferable structure can be realized by configuring the configuration to encourage continuation of the operation.

In the first place, the operation mode of the operation means depends on the player. For this reason, even if the operation mode is suggested, it is not guaranteed that the operation will be performed exactly as suggested. Therefore, for example, if the operation mode in the first presentation is maintained while moving to the second presentation, if there is a difference between the operation mode that triggers the execution of the second operation-responsive presentation in the second presentation and the operation mode being executed, it cannot be denied that the second operation-responsive presentation may not be performed properly. Therefore, if a configuration is used in which it is determined whether or not to induce continuation of the operation depending on the operation mode in the first presentation as shown in this embodiment, it is possible to preferably avoid the second operation-responsive presentation not being performed properly as a result of inducing continuation of the operation.

More specifically, for example, the timing of the operation is important in the performance corresponding to the second operation, and if the continuation of the continuous tapping is triggered by the operation means being repeatedly pressed during the first performance, the second operation It is assumed that it will be difficult to perform well-timed operations during production. On the other hand, if the trigger for executing the second operation-compatible performance is based on repeated hits of the operating means, the above-mentioned inconvenience does not occur. In this way, there is technical significance in having a configuration in which the possibility of guidance is determined based on the understanding of the actual operation mode.

In a configuration in which the first operation-responsive presentation is completed by operating the operation button 40 once (a "single operation"), the adverse effects of a period in which no operation is prompted being performed between the first operation-responsive presentation and the second presentation are relatively small. In contrast, if a blank occurs when successive operations (a "long press" or "rapid tap") are followed by successive operations (a "long press" or "rapid tap"), this can easily give the negative impression of having to "redo" the successive operations. Thus, if a configuration is used in which a blank is avoided at least when successive operations are followed by successive operations, the various effects described above can be optimally achieved.

<Modification 1>
In the second embodiment, the operation suggestion is continued under one of the conditions that the operation mode of the operation button 40 in the first performance is "long press" and "long press" is set as the operation mode that triggers the second operation response performance in the second embodiment, or the operation mode of the operation button 40 in the first performance is "continuous tap" and "continuous tap" is set as the operation mode that triggers the second operation response performance in the second embodiment, but this is not limited to this. The operation suggestion may be continued under one of the conditions that the operation mode of the operation button 40 in the first performance is "long press" and "continuous tap" is set as the operation mode that triggers the second operation response performance in the second embodiment. In a gaming machine provided with an operation support function as shown in this embodiment, automatic continuous tapping can be performed by "long press". Therefore, even if "long press" is changed to "continuous tap", there is substantially no difference in the operation mode of the operation button 40. It is also possible to configure the device to continue the operation suggestion under the condition that the operation mode of the operation button 40 in the first performance is "repeated taps" and "long press" is set as the operation mode that triggers the second operation response performance in the second embodiment. However, in such a configuration, it is preferable to notify that the specific operation mode has been changed to "long press".

<Modification 2>
In addition to the operation suggestion image (button icon) shown in the second embodiment, an image (for example, a timer icon) indicating the operation acceptance period (remaining period) may be displayed. In this case, in order to encourage continuation of the operation when transitioning from the first performance to the second performance, it is preferable to update the display of the timer icon to indicate that the reception period has increased (extended or returned).

<Modification 3>
When operation suggestions are continued between the first performance and the second performance, it is also possible to add a performance during the interval period between the first performance and the second performance. For example, it is preferable to perform a connecting effect that connects the first effect and the second extension. If the first performance and the second performance are devised so that the player recognizes them as a series of performances, the connection between the first performance and the second performance can be strengthened.

<Modification 4>
When the operation suggestion is continued between the first and second performances, it is not necessary to continue to display the button icon as the image for the operation suggestion in the same manner. For example, when the operation suggestion is continued, the color, shape, size, etc. of the button icon may be changed.

<Third embodiment>
In the second embodiment, the configuration is such that an interval period between the first performance and the second performance is ensured. Although the existence of an interval period is advantageous in clearly indicating changes in performance, it cannot be denied that the existence of this interval period may become a factor that reduces the player's attention. Therefore, one of the features of this embodiment is that measures are taken to avoid the occurrence of such inconveniences. Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 24, the characteristic configuration of this embodiment will be explained, focusing on the differences from the second embodiment. FIG. 24(a) is a flowchart showing the setting content update process, and FIG. 24(b) is a timing chart showing the flow of the game.

(Settings update process)
In the setting content update process, first, in step S1001, it is determined whether or not it is time to make an update determination. In this embodiment, the timing of this update determination is set to be earlier than that of the second embodiment. Specifically, it is the same as the second embodiment in that the number of operations related to the update determination is set to be less than the upper limit number (prescribed number) of operations of the operation button 40 determined when the first performance starts, but the number of operations related to the update determination is half the prescribed number, and it is determined early whether or not to continue the suggestion. If a negative determination is made in step S1001, the update process is terminated as it is, and if a positive determination is made in step S1001, the process proceeds to step S1002.

In step S1002, it is determined whether the interval period between the first and second performances is within a predetermined range. Specifically, if a first type second performance with a relatively short interval period is executed as the second performance, a positive determination is made in step S1002, and if a second type second performance with a relatively long interval period is executed as the second performance, a negative determination is made in step S1002. If a negative determination is made in step S1002, the update process ends as is, and if a positive determination is made in step S1002, the process proceeds to step S1003.

In step S1003, it is determined whether the operation mode of the operation button 40 in the first performance matches the operation mode related to the second performance. More specifically, if a "long press" is performed in the first performance, it is determined whether a "long press" is set in the second performance (whether second performance A is selected), and if a "repeated hit" is performed in the first performance, it is determined whether a "repeated hit" is set in the second performance (whether second performance B is selected). If a negative determination is made in step S1003, this update process is terminated as is, and if a positive determination is made in step S1003, it proceeds to step S1004.

In step S1004, a process for continuing to display the button icon as an operation suggestion image is executed. In this case, the button icon displayed on the display screen 94a with the start of the first performance is not hidden based on the end of the operation acceptance period, but the display of the button icon is extended until the start of the second performance, and the display of the button icon continues from the first performance to the second performance (see FIG. 24(b)).

After the button icon display continuation process is executed in step S1004, the process proceeds to step S1005. In step S1005, the extension process of the first operation-responsive effect is executed. Specifically, the above-mentioned specified number of times is added and the operation acceptance period is extended, and the emphasis period (flash occurrence period) of the effect executed at the end of the operation acceptance period is extended. By extending the first effect in this way, the interval period that would normally be secured between the first and second effects is filled (see FIG. 24(b)).

Here, referring to FIG. 24(b), a supplementary explanation will be given on the flow from the first performance to the second performance. In the first performance, the color of the effect on the display screen 94a changes when the operation button 40 is operated. In the first performance shown in this embodiment, an operation acceptance period and the number of operation acceptances in the first performance are specified when the first performance is executed, and the first performance ends when the number of operation acceptances reaches the specified number before the operation acceptance period has elapsed. Therefore, the execution period of the first performance depends on the operation of the player.

However, if the operation mode implemented in the first performance matches the operation mode set in the second performance, the condition for ending the first performance is relaxed. In other words, the above-mentioned specified number of times is added and the operation acceptance period is extended. This extends the first performance and appropriately encourages the player to continue operating during this extended period.

When the first performance ends, it triggers the start of the second performance. In other words, the first and second performances are directly linked, and there is an immediate transition to the second performance. Operation suggestions continue during this time, preventing operations from being temporarily interrupted. Note that even in this case, there may be periods during which no operations are accepted, but these periods are shorter than when an interval period is set. This makes it less likely that the player will get the impression that performing operations according to operation suggestions is a waste of time.

<Modification 1>
In the third embodiment, the first performance is extended by delaying the end timing of the first performance until the start timing of the second performance, but the extent to which the first performance is extended is arbitrary. , it is not necessarily necessary to set the interval period between the first performance and the second performance to 0.

<Modification 2>
In the third embodiment, both the operation acceptance period (effect change period) and the effect final display period are extended in the first performance, but which part of the first performance is extended is arbitrary. However, for example, if only the effect final display period is extended, the fact that the operation acceptance period is exceeded becomes conspicuous, and the final part of the first performance becomes drawn out. This can be a factor that reduces the appearance of the first performance. In view of these circumstances, there is a technical significance in that, when the operation acceptance period (effect change period) is extended, the delay in the end timing can be made less noticeable compared to when only the final display period is extended.

<Modification 3>
In the third embodiment, the timing of the update determination is brought forward to ensure a margin when extending the first performance, but the timing at which the update determination is made (when certain conditions are met) is arbitrary. For example, it is possible to configure the update determination (positive determination) to be made when the operation support flag is stored, and to configure the update determination (positive determination) to be made when the operation button 40 is operated at least twice. It is preferable to configure the update determination (negative determination) to be made (extension of the first performance is avoided) when none of these conditions are met.

<Fourth embodiment>
In the second embodiment, the configuration is such that an interval period between the first performance and the second performance is ensured. Although the existence of an interval period is advantageous in clearly indicating changes in performance, it cannot be denied that the existence of this interval period may become a factor that reduces the player's attention. Therefore, one of the features of this embodiment is that measures are taken to avoid the occurrence of such inconveniences. Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 25, the characteristic configuration of this embodiment will be explained, focusing on the differences from the second embodiment. FIG. 25(a) is a flowchart showing the setting content update process, and FIG. 25(b) is a timing chart showing the flow of the game.

(Settings update process)
In the setting content update process, first, in step S1101, it is determined whether or not it is time to make an update determination. In this embodiment, the timing of this update determination is set to be earlier than in the second embodiment. Specifically, it is the same as the second embodiment in that the number of operations related to the update determination is set to be less than the upper limit number (prescribed number) of operations of the operation button 40 determined when the first performance starts, but the number of operations related to the update determination is half the prescribed number, and it is determined early whether or not to continue the suggestion. If a negative determination is made in step S1101, the update process is terminated as it is, and if a positive determination is made in step S1101, the process proceeds to step S1102.

In step S1102, it is determined whether the interval period between the first and second performances is within a predetermined range. Specifically, if a first type second performance with a relatively short interval period is executed as the second performance, a positive determination is made in step S1002, and if a second type second performance with a relatively long interval period is executed as the second performance, a negative determination is made in step S1102. If a negative determination is made in step S1102, the update process ends as is, and if a positive determination is made in step S1102, the process proceeds to step S1103.

In step S1103, it is determined whether the operation mode of the operation button 40 in the first effect matches the operation mode related to the second effect. More specifically, if "long press" is performed in the first effect, check whether "long press" is set in the second effect (whether second effect A is selected). If the first effect is "continuous hit", it is determined whether "continuous hit" is set in the second effect (whether second effect B is selected). If a negative determination is made in step S1103, the main update process is directly terminated, and if an affirmative determination is made in step S1103, the process proceeds to step S1104.

In step S1104, a process for continuing to display the button icon as an operation suggestion image is executed. In this case, the button icon displayed on the display screen 94a with the start of the first performance is not hidden based on the end of the operation acceptance period, but the display of the button icon is extended until the start of the second performance, and the display of the button icon continues from the first performance to the second performance (see FIG. 25(b)).

After the button icon display continuation process is executed in step S1104, the process proceeds to step S1105. In step S1105, the process of shortening the interval period is executed. Specifically, the start timing of the second performance is matched to the end timing of the first performance so that the second performance is executed ahead of schedule. By bringing the second performance forward in this way, the interval period that would normally be secured between the first and second performances is shortened (see FIG. 25(b)).

Here, with reference to FIG. 25(b), supplementary explanation will be given regarding the flow of the first effect to the second effect. In the first effect, the color of the effect on the display screen 94a changes by operating the operation button 40. In the first performance shown in this embodiment, the operation acceptance period and the number of operations accepted in the first performance are defined when executing the first performance, and the number of operations accepted reaches the specified number of times before the operation acceptance period elapses. As a result, the first performance ends. Therefore, the execution period of the first performance depends on the player's operation.

If the operation mode performed in the first performance matches the operation mode set in the second performance, the start timing of the second performance executed thereafter will be advanced, and when the first performance ends, this will trigger the start of the second performance. In other words, the first and second performances are directly linked, and there is an immediate transition to the second performance. During this time, operation suggestions continue, preventing operations from being temporarily interrupted. Note that even in this case, there may be periods during which no operations are accepted, but these periods will be shorter than when an interval period is set. This makes it less likely that the player will get the impression that performing operations according to operation suggestions is a waste of time.

<Modification 1>
In the above fourth embodiment, the start timing of the second performance is advanced to the end timing of the first performance, but it is sufficient if at least the interval period is shortened, and the extent to which the second performance is advanced is optional.

It is also possible to shorten the interval period by combining it with the extension function of the first performance shown in the third embodiment.

<Modification 2>
In the fourth embodiment, the entire second performance is shifted to the first performance. However, this can be changed to a configuration in which only the start timing of the second performance is advanced.

Fifth embodiment
As shown in the second to fourth embodiments, in a configuration in which there is an invalid period during which no operation is accepted between the first and second effects, the fact that no change corresponding to the operation occurs despite the operation suggestion being made can be a cause of confusion for the player. One of the features of this embodiment is that it is devised to avoid the occurrence of such inconvenience.

Specifically, if the operation suggestion of the operation button 40 continues across the first and second performances, the operation performed during the period from when the operation acceptance in the first performance ends until the first performance ends is reflected in the second performance. More specifically, the period from when the acceptance of the first operation in the first performance ends until the first performance ends is the valid period of the second operation for the second performance. If the operation button 40 is operated during this period, it is stored and the operation result is reflected in the second performance.

For example, if a "long press" is performed as the first operation in the first performance, and the operation mode in the second performance is "long press", the acceptance period for the first operation in the first performance ends. Taking this as an opportunity, acceptance of the second operation is started. If the "long press" is continued during this period, the duration will be stored. In addition, if an interval period exists, this interval period is also set as the acceptance period for the second operation, and if the "long press" is continued during the interval period, the duration is memorized. . In this way, if the "long press" period has been accumulated due to preliminary operations, the accumulated period will be applied at the start of the second effect, etc., and the remaining "long press" period required will be be shortened.

Furthermore, if a "repeated hit" is performed as the first operation in the first performance and the operation mode in the second performance is "repeated hit", the acceptance of the second operation begins when the acceptance period for the first operation in the first performance ends. If the "repeated hits" continue during this period, the number of times is stored. Furthermore, if an interval period exists, this interval period is also set as the acceptance period for the second operation, and if the "repeated hits" continue during the interval period, the number of times is stored. In this way, if the number of "repeated hits" from the previous operation has been accumulated, the number of times accumulated at the start of the second performance, etc. is applied, and the remaining number of required "repeated hits" is reduced.

In this way, by configuring the game to accept operations for the second performance during the first performance or the interval period, it is possible to avoid the operation becoming meaningless if the operation is continued in response to the continuation of the operation suggestion. In this way, bringing the operation acceptance forward is also a preferable configuration for preventing the continuation of the operation suggestion from becoming a factor that increases the burden on the player.

Sixth embodiment
In each of the above-mentioned embodiments, the first performance is configured to display a suggestion image (button icon) that prompts the operation of the operation button 40, and it is clearly indicated that the first performance corresponding to the operation of the operation button 40 will be performed during the corresponding game round. In contrast, in this embodiment, the first performance is configured to not indicate that the first performance will be performed during the corresponding game round without suggesting the operation, which is different from the above-mentioned embodiments. In addition, the first performance executed in this embodiment corresponds to a cut-in display similar to the above-mentioned second performance, and is configured to execute the cut-in display when the operation button 40 is operated ("single operation") at a preset timing. In this way, if the presence or absence of the first performance and the timing at which the first operation should be performed are not clearly indicated, it is possible to strengthen the unexpectedness and contribute to suppressing monotony of the game.

However, if the occurrence of the first performance and the timing at which the first operation should be performed are intentionally hidden, the following inconveniences may occur due to random operation in anticipation of the occurrence of the first performance. For example, when the second performance C is set as the second performance, it is preferable to operate the operation button 40 at the right time, aiming at the impact area IE (see FIG. 17(a)). However, if the second performance C is executed under a situation where operations are being performed automatically or manually at random, the pointer P will stop immediately in response to the operation, and the player will unintentionally miss an opportunity to actually participate in the second performance C. This raises concerns that the effect of increasing attention to the game by executing the second performance C will not be fully exerted. In addition, if the operation button 40 is not operated at all when the second performance is not being executed due to caution against such an event, the significance of providing the non-disclosed first performance will be diminished. In this embodiment, one of the features is that measures are taken in consideration of such circumstances. The configuration related to the measures will be described below.

When the second performance is executed, the operation status of the operation button 40 immediately before the second performance is executed is monitored. Specifically, the MPU 612 of the notification/performance control device 142 executes an operation monitoring process as part of the variable display process (variable process). Here, the operation monitoring process will be described with reference to FIG. 26(a).

(Processing for operation monitoring)
In the operation monitoring process, first, in step S1201, it is determined whether or not the operation status is being monitored. If a negative determination is made in step S1201, the process advances to step S1202. In step S1202, it is determined whether it is time to start monitoring the operation status. Specifically, it is determined whether or not it is a predetermined timing before starting the second performance, specifically, a timing that precedes the interval when automatic consecutive hits are performed by a period longer than the interval (for example, 2 seconds). .

If a negative determination is made in step S1202, the operation monitoring process is immediately terminated. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1202, an operation status monitoring start process is executed in step S1203, and then the operation monitoring process is ended. By executing the operation status monitoring start process, the operation status during the monitoring period is grasped.

If an affirmative determination is made in step S1201, the process advances to step S1204. In step S1204, it is determined whether it is the start timing of the second effect. If a negative determination is made in step S1204, this operation monitoring process ends. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1204, the process advances to step S1205. In step S1205, storage processing of the monitoring results is executed. Specifically, if the operation support flag exists during the monitoring period, it is stored that a "long press" was performed, and the operation button 40 is operated multiple times (more specifically, twice) during the monitoring period. In this case, the fact that "successive hits" were performed is stored.

After executing the process in step S1205, an operation monitoring end process is executed in step S1206, and the present operation monitoring process is ended.

In the above-mentioned variable processing, the second performance setting processing is executed following the above-mentioned operation monitoring processing. The second performance setting processing will be explained below with reference to the flowchart in FIG. 26(b).

(Second effect setting process)
In the second effect setting process, first, in step S1301, it is determined whether or not it is time to start the second effect. If a negative determination is made in step S1301, the second effect setting process is directly ended. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1301, the operation status during the monitoring period is grasped based on the information stored in step S1205.

After executing the process in step S1302, the process advances to step S1303. In step S1303, it is determined whether a "long press" was performed during the monitoring period. When an affirmative determination is made in step S1303, the process proceeds to step S1304, and after setting the second effect A as the second effect, the second effect setting process is ended. As already explained, the second effect A performs a cut-in display as a second operation corresponding effect based on the fact that a "long press" is performed during the second effect A.

If a negative determination is made in step S1303, the process advances to step S1305. In step S1305, it is determined whether "repeated hits" were performed during the monitoring period. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1305, the process advances to step S1306, and after setting the second performance B as the second performance, the second performance setting process is ended. As already explained, the second performance B performs a cut-in display as a second operation corresponding performance based on the fact that "repeated hits" were performed during the second performance B.

If a negative determination is made in step S1305, the process advances to step S1307, and after setting the second performance C as the second performance, the second performance setting process ends. As already explained, the second effect C performs a cut-in display as a second operation corresponding effect based on the fact that a "single operation" has been performed during the second effect C.

As described above in detail, when the second performance is performed, the performance corresponding to which operation state is to be executed is determined based on the operation state immediately before. This makes it possible to avoid the second performance C not being executed properly.

The specific progress of the effects will be described below with reference to the timing chart in Figure 27. Figure 27 illustrates an example in which an operation-responsive continuous effect is executed in which the first effect is followed by the second effect.

At the timing of tc1, the flow of the presentation for the current game round is decided, and at the same time, the display screen 94a of the pattern display device 94 starts to display changing patterns. After the transition to reach display at the timing of tc2, the situation becomes one in which the first presentation may occur. However, the fact that the presentation will occur and its timing are not clearly stated, making it difficult for the player to identify it. The probability of the first presentation occurring is high in a game round that results in a jackpot, and low in a game round that results in a miss. For this reason, when the first presentation occurs, the expectation of a jackpot result increases.

If a player expecting the first effect operates the operation button 40 at timing tc3, this timing falls outside the acceptance period (acceptance timing) for the first operation, so the first operation response effect will not occur. If the operation button 40 is then kept pressed, operation support is enabled at timing tc4, and automatic repeated tapping will be executed from that point on until the player's hand is released from the operation button 40.

When the acceptance period (acceptance timing) for the first operation comes at timing tc5, the first operation by automatic continuous tapping is effectively accepted, and the performance corresponding to the first operation is executed based on the operation. Specifically, "CHANCE" is cut-in and displayed on the display screen 94a of the symbol display device 94 as a message indicating the degree of expectation of a jackpot result. Thereafter, the second performance is started at timing tc6.

Here, the monitoring of the operation status described above is started immediately before the timing of tc6. The operation button 40 that started at timing tc3 continues to be pressed, and the operation support function is enabled. The second effect A is set as the second effect based on the "long press" being performed during the monitoring period.

When the second effect A is started at timing tc6, a second operation suggestion is started in which a button icon and a charge gauge CG are displayed on the display screen 94a. By continuing to operate the operation button 40, the charge gauge CG accumulates, and when the charge gauge CG becomes full at the timing of tc7, "BIG CHANCE" is displayed as a cut-in message indicating the degree of expectation of a jackpot result. Ru.

Since the game round illustrated in FIG. 27 corresponds to a winning result, the symbol combination corresponding to the winning result will be stopped and displayed at the timing tc8 when the game round ends.

According to the sixth embodiment described above in detail, the configuration makes it impossible for the player to know in advance whether or not the first effect will actually occur, and even if the player senses that the first effect will occur, it is difficult to discern the timing of the acceptance of the first operation, which is the trigger for the execution of the first operation-responsive effect. By allowing automatic rapid tapping through operation support in consideration of such circumstances, operation targeted at the period when operation acceptance is likely to occur is made easier. In other words, there is no need to repeatedly operate the operation button 40 in hopes of an effect that may or may not actually occur. Even if the timing of operation acceptance is set strict, the support through automatic rapid tapping makes it possible to operate at that timing.

However, when this type of performance and the support function are used together, it cannot be denied that the second performance may start while the automatic consecutive hits are being performed. If the above-mentioned automatic continuous hits are performed when the second performance C, in which the content of the second operation corresponding performance changes depending on the operation timing, is executed, the operation will be accepted at an unexpected timing, and the second performance will change. C may end in a manner different from the player's expectations.

In this regard, as shown in this embodiment, if the configuration is such that when performing the second performance, the status of the operation in advance is grasped and the content of the second performance is determined based on the grasped result, the above-mentioned The occurrence of inconveniences can be suitably suppressed.

<Modification 1>
In the sixth embodiment, the occurrence or non-occurrence of the first performance and the acceptance period (acceptance timing) of the first operation are not specified, but it is possible to change this and configure it to suggest that the first performance may occur or that the first operation may be accepted. In other words, although it is difficult to distinguish whether the first performance is executed or another performance (reach display or development to super reach) is executed, it is also possible to configure it to suggest that some change may occur at a predetermined timing during the game round. For example, it is also possible to configure it to display the progress during the game round using a progress gauge, and to give identification power to the points where some change occurs in the performance, etc. as checkpoints.

<Modification 2>
In the sixth embodiment, only whether or not the second performance can be executed is determined at the start of a game round, and the details are determined at the timing of execution of the second performance, but this is not limited to the above. The details of the second performance may be determined at the start of a game round. In this case, the operation status is not monitored in all game rounds in which the second performance is performed, but the operation status is monitored only in game rounds in which the second performance C can be executed, and if it is determined that a "long press" or "repeated tap" is performed as a result of the monitoring, the second performance C may be rewritten to the second performance A or the second performance B depending on the operation status that is determined.

<Other embodiments>
Note that the present invention is not limited to the contents described in each of the embodiments described above, and may be implemented as follows, for example. Incidentally, each of the following configurations may be applied individually to each of the above embodiments, or a part or all of them may be combined and applied to each of the above embodiments. Further, it is also possible to arbitrarily combine all or part of the various configurations shown in each of the above embodiments. In this case, it is preferable that the technical significance (effects exhibited) of each configuration to be combined is ensured. Each of the following configurations may be applied individually to a new configuration consisting of a combination of embodiments, or a part or all of them may be applied in combination.

(1) In each of the above embodiments, a decision is made at the start of a game round as to whether or not to perform the first and second effects, and the details of the effects are then decided, but this is not limited to the above. For example, the details may be decided at the start of the game round, and the details may be rewritten depending on the situation, or the presence or absence of effects and the details of the effects may be decided depending on the situation during the game round.

(2) In each of the above embodiments, when performing the first operation-responsive effect, the configuration is such that the operation icon is displayed but no specific operation mode instruction is given, but the present invention is not limited to this. do not have. It is also possible to have a configuration that instructs the operation mode. When actually playing a game, even if the effect can be completed with one operation, the operation may be continued in the expectation that something else will happen, or the operation may be continued due to inertia etc. . Further, even if repeated hits are instructed, it is not necessarily the case that repeated hits will be made, and it cannot be denied that the operation may not be performed or the operation may be performed only once. In this way, if consideration is given to the fact that operations are not necessarily performed in accordance with instructions, a practically preferable configuration can be realized by adopting the above configuration.

(3) The operation support function when the operation button 40 is "long pressed" shown in each of the above embodiments can be modified as follows.

(3-1) If the detection signal falls to a LOW level during execution of automatic continuous hits by operation support, the start condition (return condition) of operation support may be temporarily relaxed. For example, it is also possible to shorten the duration of the press required to transition to the operation support mode upon the next long press.

More specifically, if the number of consecutive detections of a LOW level signal is within a predetermined number, the number of consecutive detections of a HIGH level can be reduced as a transition condition to the next operation support. By relaxing the return condition in this way, automatic rapid-fire can be smoothly continued even if the detection signal is interrupted due to noise or other factors during automatic rapid-fire.

(3-2) When the operation button 40 switches from a continuous press operation to a long press operation, the conditions for starting operation support are relaxed compared to other cases (for example, when the operation changes from no operation to a long press operation). Good too. As described above, when operations such as repeated hits are performed repeatedly due to continuous performances, it is assumed that the player who is performing the repeated hits on his own will become more fatigued. Therefore, in such cases, by quickly bringing out the operation support function, it is possible to contribute to smoother utilization of the operation support function. Note that if the responsiveness is simply increased, the player will react too sensitively, resulting in repeated hits even though the player does not want to do so, and the player's intentions will not be reflected properly. In this respect, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of the above-mentioned inconvenience by increasing the responsiveness only in the case of continuous presses → long presses.

(3-3) The timing of the end of the operation support mode may be configured to coincide with the timing of the end of the performance that transitioned to the operation support mode. However, when changing the conditions for ending the operation support mode in this way, if the operation manner in each of the previous and next performances becomes common, it is preferable to also use a configuration in which the operation support is continued in the subsequent performance without determining whether or not operation support is possible.

(3-4) It may be explained that automatic continuous hitting is possible by long-pressing the operation button 40. For example, in a situation where the player is encouraged to play repeatedly, a message or the like explaining the above function may be displayed along with the operation icon.

(4) In each of the above embodiments, both the first and second performances are performed using the pattern display device 94 (display screen 94a), but which device is used to perform the first and second performances is arbitrary. For example, they may be performed using lamps, movable props, etc. In addition, the target for performing the first performance and the target for performing the second performance may be separate.

(5) In each of the above embodiments, the first effect and the second effect are performed during the ready-to-reach display, but the present invention is not limited to this. The execution timing of the first performance and the second performance is arbitrary. For example, the first effect may be executed before the ready-to-reach display, or both the first effect and the second effect may be executed before the ready-to-reach display is displayed.

(6) In each of the above embodiments, the first performance and the second performance are executed during one game round, but the first performance and the second performance are executed over two game rounds. It is also possible to have a configuration in which For example, a configuration may be adopted in which the first performance is performed in the previous game round, and the second performance is performed in the subsequent game round. In this case, when the previous game round is being executed, the first performance → the second performance is executed on the condition that the hold information for the next game round is stored, thereby making it practical. A more preferable configuration can be realized.

(7) In each of the above embodiments, the display screen 94a of the pattern display device 94 is configured to provide operation suggestions, but the specific configuration for providing suggestions is not limited to this. For example, the operation may be suggested by a sound output from a speaker unit, or the operation may be suggested by illuminating a light-emitting board (light-emitting body) built into the operation button.

(8) In each of the above embodiments, the operation button 40 is used as the "operation means", but this is not limited to this. For example, other contact-type operation means such as a touch panel or a lever may be used, or non-contact-type operation means such as an optical sensor may be used.

(9) In each of the above embodiments, the operation-compatible performance is canceled if no operation is performed. In this case, the operation-incompatible performance is executed instead of the operation-compatible performance. It is also possible to do so.

(10) In each of the above embodiments, the operation suggestion is started at the same time as the operation reception starts, but the operation reception is started after a predetermined preparation period has elapsed after the operation suggestion started. It is also possible.

(11) The present invention can also be applied to other types of pachinko machines that differ from the above-described embodiments, such as pachinko machines in which an electric device opens a predetermined number of times when a gaming ball enters a specific area of a special device, pachinko machines in which a right is generated and a jackpot is awarded when a gaming ball enters a specific area of a special device, pachinko machines equipped with other devices, arrange ball machines, mahjong ball machines, and other gaming machines.

The present invention can also be applied to non-pinball gaming machines, such as slot machines, which have multiple reels with multiple patterns circumferentially attached, and in which the rotation of the reels is started by inserting a medal and operating a start lever, and after the reels are stopped by operating a stop switch, if a specific pattern or combination of specific patterns is formed on a winning line visible through a display window, a special reward such as a medal payout is given to the player.

Furthermore, the game machine main body supported by the outer frame in an openable and closable manner is provided with a storage section and a take-in device, and the start lever is operated after a predetermined number of game balls stored in the storage section are taken in by the take-in device. The present invention can also be applied to a gaming machine that is a combination of a pachinko machine and a slot machine, which starts the rotation of the reels by doing so.

<About the invention group extracted from each of the above embodiments>
Hereinafter, the features of the invention group extracted from each of the embodiments described above will be explained, showing effects etc. as necessary. In the following, for ease of understanding, configurations corresponding to the above embodiments are appropriately indicated in parentheses, etc., but the present invention is not limited to the specific configurations shown in parentheses.

<Characteristics Group A>
The following feature group A is ``For example, some gaming machines such as pachinko machines are known to be equipped with operation means operated by players.For example, in the pachinko gaming machine shown in Patent Document 1, An operating means is provided on the front of the gaming machine, and the gaming machine is configured to display a special effect on the screen in response to the player's operation in order to make the player expect the occurrence of a special gaming state that is advantageous to the player. Regarding the background technology, ``In gaming machines that employ such operating means, an important issue is how to use the operating means to increase the attention of players to the game.'' Here, there is a concern that if special effects are simply performed in response to the operation of the operating means, the operation will become monotonous and the freshness will be lost, and interest in the operation itself will tend to decline. If the configuration is such that various special effects are performed in accordance with the operations, it is possible to suppress the monotony of the game, but it is assumed that the operation mode becomes complicated and the player is likely to be confused.In this way, The invention was made with the problem that there is still room for improvement in the structure of the special performance in order to increase attention to the game.

Feature A1. In a gaming machine equipped with an operation means (operation button 40) operated by a player and a performance execution means (a symbol display device 94 and a notification/performance control device 142) that executes a performance corresponding to the operation of the operation means,
The effect execution means includes a first effect execution means for executing a first operation corresponding effect (effect change) in response to an operation of the operation means, and a second effect execution means for executing a second operation corresponding effect (cut-in display) in response to an operation of the operation means,
A gaming machine characterized in that it is provided with an operation mode setting means (a function of setting the operation mode in the MPU 612 of the notification/performance control device 142) which, when executing the second operation corresponding performance after executing the first operation corresponding performance, sets the operation mode of the operation means that triggers the execution of the second operation corresponding performance based on the operation mode of the operation means in the first operation corresponding performance.

According to feature A1, the operation mode that triggers the execution of the second operation-compatible performance is set in accordance with the operation mode in the first operation-compatible performance. As a result, it is possible to give relevance to the operation mode when performing the first operation corresponding performance → the second operation corresponding performance, and it is possible to suppress the operation from becoming difficult or complicated. As a result, by using the two operation-corresponding performances in combination, it is possible to suitably exhibit the effect of increasing the attention level to the game.

Feature A2. The operation mode setting means has means for setting an operation mode that can be a trigger for execution of the second operation corresponding performance to be the same operation mode as the operation mode of the operation means in the first operation corresponding performance. The gaming machine according to feature A1.

According to feature A2, an operation mode that can serve as a trigger for execution of the second operation-compatible performance is set to be similar to the operation mode in the first operation-compatible performance. In other words, when the first operation corresponding performance becomes the second operation corresponding performance, the operation corresponding performance is executed by the same operation. In this way, by aligning the operation mode that triggers the execution with the operation mode that triggered the execution of the previous operation-corresponding performance, it is possible to avoid confusing the player by making the operation complicated when the performance is repeated, or to avoid making mistakes. It is possible to suitably prevent the operation from being performed.

Feature A3. The first performance execution means executes the first operation corresponding performance in response to the operation of the operation means during the first performance,
The second performance execution means executes the second operation corresponding performance in response to the operation of the operation means during the second performance,
The second performance execution means includes means for executing the second performance in a manner that is continuous with or overlaps with the first performance when the second performance is started after the start of the first performance. The gaming machine according to feature A1 or feature A2.

In a configuration in which the first and second effects are consecutive or overlapping as shown in feature A3, an event may occur in which the second effect is started while an operation corresponding to the first effect is being performed. For example, when transitioning to the second effect, the operation may be repeated with the momentum/rhythm of the first effect. This raises the concern that the actual operation mode may differ from the set operation mode, and the player's intention may not be properly reflected in the effect. By applying the technical ideas shown in feature A1 etc. to such a configuration and configuring the gaming machine to determine (adjust) the mode of subsequent operation according to the mode of the player's previous operation, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of the above inconveniences and realize a practically preferable configuration.

Feature A4: The first performance execution means executes the first operation-responsive performance in response to an operation of the operation means during the first performance;
The second performance execution means executes the second operation-responsive performance in response to an operation of the operation means during the second performance,
an acceptance start means for starting acceptance of an operation of the operation means during the second performance;
A gaming machine described in any one of features A1 to A3, characterized in that it is provided with an operation suggestion means that begins suggesting a second operation before the acceptance start means begins accepting operations.

As shown in feature A1, etc., by configuring the operation mode in the second performance according to the operation mode in the first performance, it is possible to prevent the operation from becoming excessively complicated when switching from the first performance to the second performance. In such a configuration, even if advance notification is given as shown in this feature, the second operation-compatible performance will be executed if the player simply continues to operate the game, and it is possible to prevent inconveniences such as the flow of the performance being interrupted when transitioning to the second performance (second operation-compatible performance) due to reasons such as poor operation.

In addition, if you visually confirm that a suggestion has been made and then try to actually perform an operation in response, a certain amount of time lag may occur between the suggestion and the actual operation. In contrast, if the system is configured to start suggesting operations in advance, the effects of the time lag described above can be mitigated, allowing the performance to proceed smoothly.

For example, the configuration may be such that operation suggestions for the second performance are started during the first performance (near the end, etc.), or the configuration is such that operation suggestions for the second performance are started during the interval period between the first performance and the second performance. It is a good idea to

Feature A5. The gaming machine described in Feature A4, characterized in that when the second performance is executed after the first performance is executed, the suggestion is made so that the operation suggestion mode corresponding to the first performance and the operation suggestion mode corresponding to the second performance are similar.

According to the configuration in which the operation suggestion is made in advance as shown in feature A4, the operation is suggested in advance, which contributes to improved responsiveness (smoother production progress) in proceeding with the production. Can be done. Here, by making the manner in which the operation is suggested in the first performance similar to the manner in which the operation is suggested in the second performance, it is possible to prevent the inconvenience of confusing the player due to complicated operations, etc. .

The configuration shown in this feature can also be described as "a gaming machine according to any one of features A1 to A4, which is characterized in that it includes a suggestion means for suggesting to the player an operation of the operation means, and the suggestion means has a means for making the suggestion such that, when the operation mode setting means sets the operation mode of the operation means that triggers the execution of the second presentation based on the operation mode of the operation means in the first presentation, the suggested operation mode corresponding to the second presentation is the same as the suggested operation mode corresponding to the first presentation."

Feature A6. The second performance execution means is
means for executing the second operation corresponding performance according to the timing of the operation of the operating means during the second performance;
and means for executing the second operation corresponding performance according to the number or period of operations of the operating means during the second performance,
The operation mode setting means sets the subsequent second performance according to the number of times or period of operation of the operation means based on the fact that the operation means was performed continuously in the preceding first performance. The gaming machine according to any one of Features A1 to A5, characterized in that the gaming machine is configured to be set so that the second operation corresponding production is executed.

If the operating means is continuously operated during the first performance, the end of the first performance does not necessarily mean that the user's hand is removed from the operating means. For example, the operation may be continued intentionally in the expectation that some kind of step-up will occur in response to continuous operation, or the operation may be continued due to inertia. When the second effect is started in a situation where continuous operations are continued in this way, the second operation corresponding effect can be executed using the above-described operation as a trigger. More specifically, if the performance corresponding to the second operation depends on the timing of the operation, the operation may be accepted at a timing that the player did not intend, and the second operation response may be delayed in a manner that does not match the player's original intention. A performance corresponding to two operations can be executed. This is harsh for the player who is actively operating the operating means. Therefore, if the operation of the operating means during the first performance is performed continuously, the mode of operation that triggers the second operation corresponding performance is set to correspond to the number of operations or to the operation period. By doing so, dependence on the above timing can be avoided. Thereby, the occurrence of the above-mentioned inconvenience can be suitably suppressed.

In particular, when the first and second performances are consecutive or partially overlapping and no interval is provided between them, it is expected that the above-mentioned inconveniences are likely to occur. In light of these circumstances, there is technical significance in applying the technical ideas shown in this feature to the configuration shown in feature A3.

Feature A7. The second performance execution means is
means for executing the second operation corresponding performance according to the timing of the operation of the operating means during the second performance;
and means for executing the second operation corresponding performance according to the number or period of operations of the operating means during the second performance,
The operation mode setting means is configured to set the operation mode setting means to perform the operation mode continuously in the preceding first performance in a situation where the second operation corresponding performance can be performed in accordance with the timing of the operation of the operation means. Feature A1 characterized in that it has a means for rewriting the second performance based on this so that the second performance is a performance in which the second operation corresponding performance is executed according to the number of operations or the period of operation of the operating means. The gaming machine according to any one of features A5 to A5.

If the operating means is continuously operated during the first performance, the end of the first performance does not necessarily mean that the user's hand is removed from the operating means. For example, the operation may be continued intentionally in the expectation that some kind of step-up will occur in response to continuous operation, or the operation may be continued due to inertia. When the second effect is started in a situation where continuous operations are continued in this way, the second operation corresponding effect can be executed using the above-described operation as a trigger. More specifically, if the performance corresponding to the second operation depends on the timing of the operation, the operation may be accepted at a timing that the player did not intend, and the second operation response may be delayed in a manner that does not match the player's original intention. A performance corresponding to two operations can be executed. This is harsh for the player who is actively operating the operating means. Therefore, if the operation of the operating means during the first performance is performed continuously, the mode of operation that triggers the second operation corresponding performance is set to correspond to the number of operations or to the operation period. By doing so, dependence on the above timing can be avoided. Thereby, the occurrence of the above-mentioned inconvenience can be suitably suppressed.

In particular, when the first performance and the second performance are continuous or partially overlap and no interval period is secured between them, it is assumed that the above-mentioned inconvenience is likely to occur. In view of these circumstances, there is technical significance in applying the technical idea shown in this feature to the configuration shown in feature A3.

Feature A8. The operation means is a pressing operation means (operation button 40) that is pressed by the player,
An operation determination means for determining an operation of the operation means (a determination function in the MPU 612 of the notification/performance control device 142),
A gaming machine described in any one of Features A1 to A7, characterized in that the operation determination means switches to a special determination state (operation support mode) when the pressing operation means is maintained in a pressed state for a predetermined period of time, and in the special determination state, determines that the operation of the operation means has been repeatedly performed until a predetermined release condition (for example, the passage of a support period or release of the pressed state) is met by maintaining the pressed state.

In a gaming machine of the type in which an operation-responsive presentation is executed according to the number of times the operating means is pressed (number of times it is repeatedly tapped), a desirable configuration can be realized in terms of ensuring variety in operations and preventing monotony in play, by combining it with a configuration in which it is sufficient to operate the operating means only once. However, increasing the operational burden on the player when performing repeated pressing operations can be a factor in making the player tired of operating the operating means. In this regard, if a configuration is adopted in which the same effect as when the operating means is repeatedly pressed (support effect from automatic repeated taps) can be obtained by maintaining the operating means in a pressed state, as shown in this feature, the occurrence of the above-mentioned inconvenience can be suitably suppressed.

However, although such an automatic rapid-fire function is advantageous in terms of improving the convenience of operation, the possibility cannot be denied that the function may be abused due to the reduced operational burden. For example, an event may occur in which the game is played with the hands on the operating means regardless of whether or not there is a suggestion to operate. In this case, as shown in feature A6, etc., the possibility cannot be denied that a second operation-responsive presentation that depends on the timing of the operation may be executed as a result of the automatic rapid-fire. In particular, considering that the first presentation is the trigger for starting the operation, the above-mentioned inconvenience is more likely to occur when transitioning from the first presentation to the second presentation. By applying the technical ideas shown in feature A5, etc. to such a configuration, it is possible to suitably suppress the occurrence of inconveniences such as presentations not being executed properly due to improved convenience.

Feature A9. The gaming machine described in Feature A8, characterized in that, in a situation where the first performance is transitioning to the second performance, after the special determination state is entered during the first performance, re-determination of the conditions for switching to the special determination state is avoided when transitioning to the second performance.

According to feature A9, after the operation means is pressed in the first performance, the special judgment state is maintained during the second performance by maintaining the pressed state. In this way, the convenience of the support function can be suitably improved by avoiding the need to reset the special judgment state.

Feature A10. The gaming machine described in Feature A8 or Feature A9, characterized in that, when the operation mode that triggers the execution of the first performance in the first performance and the operation mode that triggers the execution of the second operation-responsive performance in the second performance are both continuous operations of the operation means (e.g., long press or rapid tap), the special determination state is maintained at least until the second operation-responsive performance is executed, provided that the operation means is maintained in the pressed state.

According to feature A10, when the first performance becomes the second performance, once the special judgment state is entered during the first performance, the special judgment state is maintained thereafter until the second operation corresponding performance is executed. It happens. In other words, as long as the operating means is maintained in the pressed state, the support function can be enjoyed in the first performance to the second performance all at once, and the convenience of the support function can be suitably improved.

<Characteristics Group B>
The following feature B group has been made with respect to the background technology that states, "For example, some gaming machines, such as pachinko machines, are known to have an operation means operated by a player. For example, the pachinko machine shown in Patent Document 1 has an operation means on the front of the gaming machine, and is configured to perform a special effect on a screen display or the like in response to the player's operation in order to make the player look forward to the occurrence of a special gaming state or the like that is advantageous to the player. In gaming machines employing such an operation means, an important issue is how to use the operation means to increase the player's attention to the game." The feature B group has been made with respect to the issue that the invention is intended to solve, "Here, if special effects are simply performed in response to the operation of the operation means, there is a concern that the operation will become monotonous, the novelty will fade, and interest in the operation itself will likely decrease. In contrast, if a configuration is adopted in which various special effects are performed in response to each operation, the monotony of the game can be prevented, but it is assumed that the operation mode will become complicated and the player will be easily confused. Thus, there is still room for improvement in the configuration in terms of increasing the attention to the game by using special effects."

Feature B1. A game that includes an operation means (operation button 40) operated by a player, and a performance execution means (symbol display device 94 and notification/performance control device 142) that executes a performance corresponding to the operation according to the operation of the operation means. On the machine,
The performance execution means is
a first performance execution means that executes a first operation corresponding performance (effect change) in response to the operation of the operation means during the first performance;
and a second performance execution means for executing a second operation corresponding performance (cut-in display) in response to the operation of the operation means during the second performance,
When the second performance is executed after the first performance is executed, a guiding means (display) that guides the player to continue operating the operating means throughout the first performance and the second performance. A gaming machine characterized by having a function of continuing to display a button icon on a screen 94a.

When the first performance and the second performance associated with the operation of the operating means are performed as shown in feature B1, it is also possible to configure the system to prompt the operation individually during each performance period. With such a configuration, for example, by performing individual operations in accordance with information etc. from the gaming machine, it is possible to generate the first operation corresponding performance and the second operation corresponding performance. However, repeating the operation and stopping it may make the operation complicated and cause less attention to the performance. Further, if an instruction for the next operation is issued in a situation where the player's attentiveness has decreased after completing the operation, there is a concern that the instruction will be easily overlooked. In this way, when performing a plurality of performances corresponding to operations, it cannot be denied that the interruption of operation instructions may be a hindrance to improving the level of attention to the game. In this regard, if the guiding means is configured to encourage continuation of operations in the first to second effects as shown in this feature, the above-mentioned annoyances and oversights can be suppressed, and attention to the operations corresponding effects can be increased. It is possible to suitably exhibit the effect of improving the degree of performance.

Feature B2. A display unit (main display unit D, display screen 94a) having a pattern display means (main display unit 89, pattern display device 94) that displays a pattern on the display unit;
and a display control means (main control device 162, notification/performance control device 142, display control device 620) for controlling the display of the pattern display means to start the display of the pattern when the pattern change start condition is satisfied, change the pattern according to a predetermined change mode, and then end the change display, which is regarded as one game round.
The gaming machine according to feature B1, wherein the guiding means is configured to perform the guiding when the second presentation is executed after the first presentation is executed during one game round.

If continuation of the operation is encouraged regardless of the period between the first performance and the second performance (interval period), there is a concern that the operation will be prolonged and the burden on the player will increase. An excessively large burden may lead to a decrease in the player's desire to play, and there is concern that this will hinder active participation. In this regard, as shown in this feature, the above-mentioned guidance is limited to cases where the first performance → second performance is performed during one game round, and the above-mentioned guidance is refrained when the above-mentioned interval period becomes excessively long. With this configuration, the occurrence of the above-mentioned inconvenience can be suitably suppressed.

Feature B3. A game that includes an operation means (operation button 40) operated by a player, and a performance execution means (symbol display device 94 and notification/performance control device 142) that executes a performance corresponding to the operation according to the operation of the operation means. On the machine,
The performance execution means is
a first performance execution means that executes a first operation corresponding performance (effect change) in response to the operation of the operation means during the first performance;
and a second performance execution means for executing a second operation corresponding performance (cut-in display) in response to the operation of the operation means during the second performance,
When executing the second effect after executing the first effect, there is a non-execution period (interval period) in which the first effect and the second effect are not executed,
The non-execution period includes a first period and a second period that is shorter than the first period,
When the non-execution period is the second period, a guiding means (a button on the display screen 94a) that guides the player to continue operating the operating means throughout the first performance and the second performance. A gaming machine characterized by being equipped with a function to continue displaying an icon.

When the first performance and the second performance associated with the operation of the operating means are performed as shown in feature B3, it is also possible to configure the system to prompt the operation individually during each performance period. With such a configuration, for example, by performing individual operations in accordance with information etc. from the gaming machine, it is possible to generate the first operation corresponding performance and the second operation corresponding performance. However, repeating the operation and stopping it may make the operation complicated and cause less attention to the performance. Further, if an instruction for the next operation is issued in a situation where the player's attentiveness has decreased after completing the operation, there is a concern that the instruction will be easily overlooked. In this way, when performing a plurality of effects corresponding to operations, the interruption of operation instructions may hinder the ability to increase attention to the game. In this regard, if the guiding means is configured to encourage continuation of operations in the first to second effects as shown in this feature, the above-mentioned annoyances and oversights can be suppressed, and attention to the operations corresponding effects can be increased. It is possible to suitably exhibit the effect of improving the degree of performance.

Here, if continuation of the operation is encouraged regardless of the interval between the first performance and the second performance (interval period), there is a concern that the operation will be prolonged and the burden on the player will increase. Excessive burdens can become a hindrance to encouraging active participation. In this regard, as shown in this feature, the above guidance is applied not when a relatively long first period is set as a non-execution period, but when a relatively short second period is set as a non-execution period. By adopting a configuration in which this is done, the occurrence of the above-mentioned inconvenience can be suitably suppressed.

Note that the configuration shown in this feature is defined as ``a grant determination means that determines whether or not to grant a benefit to a player when a preset determination condition is met, and a result of the grant determination by the grant determination means. is a granting response result corresponding to granting the benefit to the player, the awarding means for awarding the privilege to the player and the awarding determination means perform the awarding determination. Based on the above, a predetermined notification means starts a game reuse operation and ends the game reuse operation as a notification result corresponding to the result of the grant determination, which is defined as one game time, and the game reuse operation In the gaming machine, the gaming machine is equipped with a game time control means that controls the predetermined notification means so that The performance execution means executes a performance (symbol display device 94 and notification/performance control device 142), and the performance execution means executes a first operation corresponding performance (effect) in response to the operation of the operation means during the first performance. and a second performance execution means that executes a second operation corresponding performance (cut-in display) in response to the operation of the operating means during the second performance, A performance setting means is provided for setting the first performance and the second performance to be performed during the game round when a game round is started, and when the second performance is performed after the execution of the first performance. , there is a non-execution period in which the first performance and the second performance are not performed, and the non-execution period includes a first period and a second period that is shorter than the first period, and the non-execution period includes a first period and a second period that is shorter than the first period. If the non-execution period between the first performance and the second performance is the second period, the player is guided to continue operating the operating means over the first performance and the second performance. A gaming machine characterized by being equipped with a guiding means (a function to continue displaying button icons on the display screen 94a).

Feature B4. The gaming machine described in Feature B3, characterized in that the guidance by the guidance means is not performed when the non-execution period between the first performance and the second performance is the first period.

As shown in feature B1 and the like, the problem that arises when a plurality of performances associated with an operating means are used together becomes noticeable when the time between each of these performances (non-execution period, interval period) is short. Therefore, if the non-execution period is the relatively large first period, even if the configuration is such that the guidance is refrained from, problems caused by it are unlikely to occur. The above-mentioned guidance is advantageous in encouraging active participation (operation) by the player, in order to prevent the operation from becoming unnecessarily prolonged and placing a heavy burden on the player.

Feature B5. An acceptance start means for starting acceptance of an operation of the operation means;
an operation suggestion means for starting a suggestion of an operation of the operating means when the acceptance start means starts acceptance of the operation,
A gaming machine described in any one of features B1 to B4, characterized in that when guidance is performed by the guidance means, the suggested operation mode corresponding to the second presentation can be similar to the suggested operation mode corresponding to the first presentation.

By making the operation suggestion mode in the first presentation similar to the operation suggestion mode in the second presentation, it is possible to prevent the player from becoming confused when informing them that they should continue with their operation.

Feature B6. a first suggestion means (a display function such as an icon) that suggests to the player to operate the operation means when performing the first performance;
and a second suggestion means (display function of icons, etc.) that suggests to the player to operate the operation means when performing the second performance,
The inducing means is configured to provide a method from when the first suggestion means starts to when the second suggestion means ends, so that the suggestion by the first suggestion means and the suggestion by the second suggestion means are continuous. A gaming machine characterized by having means for continuing the suggestion.

When guiding the player to continue operating the operating means from the first to the second performance, giving the impression that the operation is essentially meaningless will reduce the player's motivation to operate. This will prevent the above-mentioned guiding function from working properly. In the first performance, the player performs an operation in response to a suggestion by the first suggestion means, and as a result, the first operation-responsive performance is executed. In this way, by making the player aware that some kind of response will occur in response to the suggestion and then continuing the suggestion, it is possible to make the player aware that the ongoing operation has some kind of meaning. This makes it possible to effectively prevent the above-mentioned inconveniences from occurring.

Feature B7. The first suggestion means suggests to perform a predetermined operation continuously with the operation means as a suggestion by the first suggestion means,
The guiding means is configured to perform the predetermined operation over the first performance and the second performance when the second suggestion means suggests an operation using the operation means in the same manner as the first suggestion means. The gaming machine according to feature B6, characterized in that the gaming machine is configured to suggest.

If the configuration is such that the above-mentioned guidance is performed when the mode of operation that triggers the first operation-compatible performance and the mode of operation that triggers the second operation-compatible performance match, it is possible to perform the operation across the two performances. Even if it continues, it is possible to suitably suppress the occurrence of inconveniences such as the performance not proceeding smoothly due to differences in operation modes, etc. Thereby, it is possible to smoothly proceed with the performance corresponding to the operation.

In particular, when performing consecutive predetermined operations, if the operation is interrupted and then restarted midway, it is expected that the player will be more likely to feel that the operation is cumbersome. Therefore, when the first and second effects correspond to consecutive predetermined operations, a configuration that encourages the player to continue the operation can be implemented, which is preferable in practical use.

Feature B8. The gaming machine according to any one of Features B1 to B7, characterized in that the guiding means has a means for performing the guiding when the operation that triggers the first operation-responsive presentation is a predetermined operation of successively operating the operating means and the operation that triggers the second operation-responsive presentation is the same as the operation that triggers the first operation-responsive presentation.

If the above guidance is provided when the operation mode that triggers the first operation-responsive performance matches the operation mode that triggers the second operation-responsive performance, it is possible to effectively prevent problems such as the performance not progressing smoothly due to differences in operation modes, even if the operation is continued across two performances. This allows the operation-responsive performance to proceed smoothly.

In particular, when performing a predetermined operation in succession, if the operation is interrupted and then restarted midway through, it is assumed that the player is likely to feel that the operation is troublesome. Therefore, when the first performance and the second performance correspond to consecutive predetermined operations, a practically preferable configuration can be realized by configuring the configuration to encourage continuation of the operation.

Feature B9. an operation mode grasping means for grasping the operation mode in the first performance;
The gaming machine according to any one of features B1 to B8, further comprising means for determining whether or not the guiding means can perform the guidance based on the operation mode grasped by the operation mode grasping means. .

In the first place, the operation mode of the operation means depends on the player. For this reason, even if the operation mode is suggested, it is not guaranteed that the operation will be performed exactly as suggested. Therefore, for example, if the operation mode in the first presentation is maintained while moving to the second presentation, if there is a difference between the operation mode that triggers the execution of the second operation-responsive presentation in the second presentation and the operation mode being executed, it cannot be denied that the second operation-responsive presentation may not be performed properly. Therefore, if a configuration is adopted in which it is determined whether or not to induce continuation of the operation depending on the operation mode in the first presentation as shown in this feature, it is possible to preferably avoid a situation in which the second operation-responsive presentation is not performed properly as a result of inducing continuation of the operation.

In more detail, for example, the timing of the operation is important in the second operation response presentation, and if the continuation of rapid tapping of the operation means is prompted in response to rapid tapping during the first presentation, it is expected that timed operations will be difficult to perform in the second presentation. In contrast, if the trigger for the execution of the second operation response presentation is premised on rapid tapping of the operation means, the above-mentioned inconvenience will not arise. In this way, there is technical significance in a configuration that determines whether or not to guide the player after grasping the actual mode of operation.

When the technical idea shown in this feature is applied to feature B6 or feature B7, the configuration shown in this feature may be expressed as "a gaming machine described in feature B6 or feature B7, characterized in that it is equipped with an operation mode grasping means for grasping the operation mode in the first performance, and a means for determining whether or not the suggestion by the suggestion means should continue based on the operation mode grasped by the operation mode grasping means."

Feature B10. The gaming machine according to Feature B9, wherein the guiding means has a means for performing the guiding when the operation mode of the operation means in the first performance is a continuous operation mode in which the operation means is operated continuously and the operation mode that triggers the execution of the second performance is the continuous operation mode.

In a configuration in which the first operation-responsive presentation is completed by operating the operating means once, the adverse effects of a period in which no operation is prompted being performed being present between the first operation-responsive presentation and the second presentation are relatively small. In contrast, if a blank occurs when successive operations are switched from one successive operation to another, it is likely to give a negative impression, such as the need to "redo" the successive operations. Therefore, if a configuration is used in which the blank is avoided at least when successive operations are switched from one successive operation to another, the effects shown in feature B1 etc. can be preferably achieved.

Feature B11. a first shortening means for shortening the non-execution period between the first performance and the second performance by delaying the end timing of the first performance when the guidance is performed by the guidance means; The gaming machine according to any one of features B1 to B10.

According to feature B11, by extending the first performance and shortening the non-execution period between the first and second performances, it is possible to make it less likely that the impression is given that the period in which the continuation of the operation is induced is actually a period unrelated to the operation.

Feature B12. Feature B11 characterized in that the first shortening means is configured to delay the end timing of the first performance by extending an operation acceptance period during which operations of the operating means are accepted in the first performance. The gaming machine described in .

The appearance of the first performance can change depending on which part of the first performance is extended. Here, a certain length is ensured for the operation acceptance period in order to expand the range of timing for the player's operation. By taking this into consideration and configuring the portion corresponding to this acceptance period to be extended, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of discomfort caused by extending the first performance and prevent a decrease in the appearance of the first performance.

Feature B13. A gaming machine according to any one of Features B1 to B12, characterized in that it is provided with a second shortening means for shortening the non-execution period between the first and second effects by advancing the start timing of the second effect when the induction is performed by the induction means.

According to feature B13, by bringing the second performance forward and shortening the non-execution period between the first performance and the second performance, the period in which continuation of the operation is induced is a period that is substantially unrelated to the operation. It is possible to make it difficult to give such an impression.

Feature B14. A game that includes an operation means (operation button 40) operated by a player, and a performance execution means (symbol display device 94 and notification/performance control device 142) that executes a performance corresponding to the operation according to the operation of the operation means. On the machine,
The performance execution means is
a first performance execution means that executes a first operation corresponding performance (effect change) in response to the operation of the operation means during the first performance;
and a second performance execution means for executing a second operation corresponding performance (cut-in display) in response to the operation of the operation means during the second performance,
In the case where the second performance is executed after the first performance is executed, there is a non-execution period (interval) in which the first performance and the second performance are not performed between the first performance and the second performance. (a function of continuing to display button icons on the display screen 94a) for guiding the player to continue operating the operating means throughout the first performance and the second performance ) A gaming machine characterized by comprising:

A gaming machine characterized by comprising a guidance means (a function of continuing to display a button icon on a display screen 94a) that guides a player to continue operating the operating means across the first and second performances when the second performance is executed after the first performance is executed and there is a non-execution period (interval period) during which the first and second performances are not executed.

When the first and second effects associated with the operation of the operating means are performed as shown in feature B14, it is also possible to configure the game so that the player is prompted to perform the operation individually during each effect period. In such a configuration, the first and second operation-responsive effects can be generated by performing the operation individually according to information from the gaming machine, for example. However, repeatedly performing and stopping the operation can make the operation cumbersome, which can lead to a decrease in attention to the effects. In addition, if an instruction for the next operation is issued in a situation where the player's attention is decreased after completing the operation, there is a concern that the instruction will be easily overlooked. In this way, when performing multiple operation-responsive effects, it cannot be denied that the interruption of the operation instruction may be an obstacle to increasing attention to the game. In this regard, if the configuration is configured to encourage the player to continue the operation from the first effect to the second effect by the guiding means as shown in this feature, the occurrence of the above-mentioned annoyance and oversight can be suppressed, and the effect of increasing attention by the operation-responsive effects can be preferably exerted.

Note that the technical ideas shown in features B2 to B12 may be applied to the configuration shown in this feature.

The basic configuration of a gaming machine to which each of the above features can be applied is shown below.

Pachinko game machine: A game machine that includes an operating means (game ball launching handle 45) operated by the player, a game ball launching means (game ball launching mechanism 110) that launches game balls based on the operation of the operating means, a ball passage (guide passage 103 of guide rail 100) that guides the launched game ball to a specified game area (game area PE), and various game components (nails 87, etc.) arranged within the game area, and that awards a special prize to the player when the game ball passes through a specified passage section (general winning opening 81, etc.) of each of the game components.

Reel-type gaming machines such as slot machines: Equipped with a variable display means that displays a symbol row consisting of a plurality of symbols in a variable manner and then displays the symbol row at a final stop, and the symbols begin to fluctuate due to the operation of the starting operation means. A special game that is advantageous to the player, with the necessary condition that the fluctuation of the symbols is stopped due to the operation of the stopping operation means or after a predetermined period of time has elapsed, and that the final stopped symbol at the time of the stop is a specific symbol. A gaming machine that generates a state (bonus game, etc.).

Ball-operated belt-type gaming machine: A gaming machine equipped with a variable display means that displays a variable pattern sequence consisting of multiple patterns and then displays the final stop of the pattern sequence, in which the pattern variation is started due to the operation of a start operating means, the pattern variation is stopped due to the operation of a stop operating means or after a predetermined time has passed, and a special gaming state (bonus game, etc.) advantageous to the player is generated on the condition that the final stop pattern at the time of the stop is a specific pattern, and further equipped with a ball receiving tray and an insertion device that performs an insertion process to take in game balls from the ball receiving tray, and a payout device that pays out game balls to the ball receiving tray, and configured so that the operation of the start operating means is valid when game balls are inserted by the insertion device.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10... Pachinko machine as a gaming machine, 14... Front door frame which constitutes the front part of a gaming machine, 27... Speaker part, 28... Upper side bulging part, 40... Operation button as an operating means, 94... Constructing a performance execution means 94a...Display screen, 142...Notification/performance control device constituting production execution means, 162...Main control device, 601...MPU, 612...MPU.

Claims (1)

In a gaming machine equipped with an operation means operated by a player,
A performance corresponding to each operation can be executed in response to establishment of a performance execution condition based on the operation of the operating means during a first performance and a second performance ,
The second performance is executable after the first performance is executed, and the game is configured such that a predetermined operation on the operating means is executed in a predetermined state between the first performance and the second performance. comprising a guiding means capable of configuring the manner in which the person is guided;
The predetermined state includes a first predetermined state and a second predetermined state that may be configured for a longer period than the first predetermined state,
The guiding means is
means capable of performing the guidance in a predetermined manner in the first predetermined state;
means capable of not performing the guidance in the predetermined manner in the second predetermined state;
Equipped with
A gaming machine characterized in that the guidance in the predetermined manner is performed even if the predetermined operation is performed in the first predetermined state .

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